Union Seeks Conference On I.C. And A. Bill

Press, Volume C, Issue 29680, 25 November 1961, Page 12

Union Seeks Conference On I.C. And A. Bill

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, Nov. 24. The Wellington, Nelson, Westland and Marlborough Local Bodies, Other Labourers’ and Related Trades' Union has sent a letter to the Federation of Labour asking it to convene a special conference of union representatives before the passing of the I.C. and A. Amendment Bill. The letter, signed by the union’s secretary (Mr P. M. Butler) states that “Since the Government obviously intends to proceed with the bi.il, which has been exposed as a first step towards an attack on workers’ conditions and at weakening their unions, combined union action is required to combat the bill's passing.” The Government was passing the bill without regard to the overwhelming public opposition to it “Action taken now in an endeavour to persuade the Government to reconsider its attitude will be more effective than protests after the bill becomes law,” says Mr Butler. "In the event of the national executive of the Federation of Labour convening a special conference we suggest, in view of the serious

threat and challenge to the workers contained in the bill, that unions of workers not at present in affiliation, with the Federation of Labour should be requested to send delgates as observers. ’ “By doing so, the conference would be fully representative of all interests affected. It could possibly result in a complete unification of workers rallied round a central objective—that is. a determined policy to meet the circumstances occasioned by the proposed amendment to the law. “We trust you will treat this request as one of urgency in view of the avowed determination of the Government to continue with the legislation in opposition to all logic and reason, as expressed by representative sections of the community."