THE SHOPS AND SHOP ASSISTANTS ACT.

Evening Post, Volume L, Issue 44, 20 August 1895, Page 3

THE SHOPS AND SHOP ASSISTANTS ACT.

, — -■ — ♦ TO THK IDITOB. Sir.— Mr. Tregoir, 'in his annual Labour Department report, states that over the greater part of the colony this Act has worked fairly well. I maintain that the litigation which has occurred speaks contrary to|faots. "Mr. Trogear likewise asserts that it has been proposed — but does not say by whom— that a poll of the inhabitants should be taken in each town as to the choice of a day for ibe half-holiday, bnt I would propose to go further, as I consider, in the first place, that a poll should be taken of the inhabitants of the four centres, thereby Hiving the country unnecessary expense, as to whether there is to bo a compulsory closing of shops or no ono half-day in eaoh week. By taking this course it would be much fairer to all than being rnled, »s we are now, by Knights of Labour, Labour Counoils, and Mr. Tregear, whose views on Labour legislation cannot be otherwise than biased. Aa I have previously written, the present and .-hop Assistants Aot was not desired by the general publ-.e nor the majority of shopkeepers, nor have the shop assistants benefited in any way, as under the former Shop Assistant-! Aot they were fully protected, and employment more plentiful. As I am certain the present Government will not have a poll taken as to whether there ia to be % compulsory closing of obop3 on on* half-day in each week, they being certain of a defeat; which wonld give them likewise canse to be ashamed of their grandmotherly legislation, I earnestly beg our worthy Legislative Council to hare the courage once for all to repeal this Aot as regards compulsory closing of shops during the week , thereby leaving these newly appointed inspectors and officials to seek another mode of earning a livelihood. I am, &0., T. Arthur. 16th August.