The Press THURSDAY, JULY 11, 1968. Threat To The Economy

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31728, 11 July 1968, Page 16

The Press THURSDAY, JULY 11, 1968. Threat To The Economy

The threatened ban by freezing workers on loading out export meat is no mere squabble between a group of workers and their employers; the principles and the consequences of this action affect everyone. Direct negotiations with their employers were opened by the freezing workers’ union after the Arbitration Court had decided against making a general wage order. The freezing workers were granted an increase of 2c an hour in their award wages last November, when their spokesmen expressed their displeasure at the decision. Nevertheless, many other workers have had no increase in award wages in the last year. As the freezing workers’ award is for only 12 months they will have a further opportunity to argue their claims before the next killing season. In the meantime, they should not be allowed to prevent the export <rf meat and its by-products from the country’s 33 works. The Government should intervene in this dispute if necessary; and it will do so with the approval of most of the public. This is a direct attack on the economy—and hence the wellbeing—of the whole country.