F.O.L. DROPS OBJECTION

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31112, 15 July 1966, Page 1

F.O.L. DROPS OBJECTION

Japanese Doing Bridge Work (N.Z. Press Association) AUCKLAND, July 14. The Federation of Labour has withdrawn its opposition to the presence of Japanese in work on extensions to the Auckland Harbour Bridge. The president of the F.O.L. (Mr T. E. Skinner) said today that in view of an assurance by Sir John Allum, chairman of the Harbour Bridge Authority, that only about 24 Japanese supervisory and technical staff would be present, there was no longer any need for concern or opposition. The F.O.L. had earlier opposed the presence of Japanese workmen when it was reported that large numbers of men would be brought to Auckland for the extensions. Mr Skinner said the F.O.L. would, however, watch the bridge construction programme carefully once work began. The F.O.L. was naturally concerned at the presence of foreign labour which was subject to New Zealand’s immigration laws and to overseas companies which might exploit the local market. Sir John Allum said he was glad to hear of the federation’s decision. He was sure the initial opposition had been caused by a misunderstanding.