Industrial reforms advocated

Press, 29 July 1987, Page 3

Industrial reforms advocated

PA Wellington Reform based on cooperation and harmony is advocated in the New Zealand Democratic Party’s industrial relations policy, released by the party’s leader, Mr Neil Morrison, yesterday.

Under a Democratic Party ' Government, workers would be given the chance to take part in making management decisions and would have joint responsibility in producing goods and services.

Tax concessions and special loans would allow companies to set up worker shareholding schemes with the same rights as ordinary shareholders, so both employees and employers could share the rewards of modern technology. Unions would be reorganised into industrial councils representing all the workers at one workplace, or within defined localities. They would elect trusts to administer their shares.

The Democratic Party would create more jobs through a range of economic and social policies attracting private and Government investment to the productive sector. The policies included renewed economic growth, more processing of traditional primary products, development of new industries using natural resources and technology, reasonable imports, protection and regional development. The unemployed would

be given meaningful work experience and on-the-job training at award rates. The party would also promote equal pay for equal work, strengthen the conciliation and mediation services and preserve employees’ and employers’ rights to work out their own contracts.

New technology would be welcomed as it would improve the quality of life, reduce drudgery and provide more time for leisure through a shorter working week.