Trade Unionism

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28700, 25 September 1958, Page 3

Trade Unionism

Sir,—-When Mr Robert Beattie suggests that compulsory trade unionism tends to weaken support, he is talking nonsense. What body which is compelled by economic circumstances to organise and spend money to maintain its standards of living can afford to carry passengers, free of charge, whether for religious or other excuses? If it were not for the sacrifices and struggles of the pioneers of trade unionism wages would not be as lucrative as they are today. Even so, insidious inflation continually forces up the cost of living, which compels unions to employ researchers to prepare a case for the Arbitration Court. Unions should have nothing to do with suggestions to include a privileged class who would share in the collective benefits without paying or helping. In fact, nonumomsts would be a peril and, in times of stress, would tend to handicap the union in its fight for better conditions.—Yours, etc. RALPH S. WHEELER. September 21, 1958.

Nurses’ Home.— To meet trie

immediate needs until Cashmere Hospital opens, arrangements are bemg made to accommodate some 20 preliminary nurses of Christchurch Hospital at the nurses’ home at the Middle Sanatorium at Cashmere.