Wage order regulations

Press, 27 November 1980, Page 2

Wage order regulations

PA Wellington Regulations gazetted on Tuesday provide for either the Federation of Labour or the Employers’ Federation to apply to the Arbitration Court for a general wage order. Only one hearing is allowed under the regulations. It is expected to be held in March. The court was to decide whether an increase should be made in order to maintain and improve living standards, bearing in mind the capacity of the economy

to sustain such an increase, said the Acting Minister of Labour (Mr Thomson) yesterday. The court would also be required to consider the promotion of employment and economic growth; the maintenance of stability in the balance of payments; the promotion of industrial harmony; movements, in the incomes of wage and salary earners relative to those of other sections of the community; movements in the consumers’ price index and other price movements, including the terms of trade;

movements in rates of remuneration; changes in the rates of personal income tax; any other relevant changes in fiscal policy; and such other matters it considers relevant.

The regulations make provision for the F.0.L., the Employers’ Federation, the Combined State Unions, and the Minister of Finance to appear before the court. “In its considerations, the court will not be restricted to events that have occurred since the 4 per cent general increase paid from August 1,” Mr Thomson said.