SHORTAGE OF LABOUR

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29380, 6 December 1960, Page 16

SHORTAGE OF LABOUR

Early Study By New Cabinet (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, December 5. The National Government would give early consideration to the present labour shortage, the Prime Minister-elect, (Mr Holyoake) said tonight. Mr Holyoake today discussed the shortage with representatives of employers’ organisations. “We discussed the present labour shortage and the rather disturbing trends that are developing,” he tolc a press conference. “The employers’ representatives gave me their ideas, and I reminded them that the National Party had' promised to step up immigration. I assured them that the matter would be given early consideration by the incoming Government.” Mr Holyoake also had tall-s today with representatives of railway employee organisations. Replying to reporters’ questions. Mr Holyoake said: “It had nothing to do with the recent (engine-drivers’, firemen, and cleaners’ association) dispute. It was just a courtesy call to make me aware of their problems.” The Soviet Charge d’Affaires in New Zealand (Mr N. V. Ivanov) called bn Mr Holyoake this morning. They talked for more than 30 minutes in Mr Holyoake’s office. The visit was primarily a courtesy call bv Mr Ivanov, but he and Mr Holyoake had a general discussion on New Zea-land-Soviet relations. Mr Holyoake will continue talks with departmental heads this week.