UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM.

Evening Post, Volume CXV, Issue 80, 5 April 1933, Page 8

UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM.

The unemployment problem existed in many countries, as well as in New Zealand. To his mind that wa's one of the most serious problems with which they were confronted. It mado the position of .the-Government very difficult. In New Zealand they were endeavouring to do all that was; possible and the Government had had to call on the people to pay taxation to give some sorb of employment to those out of work. It was unsatisfactory at best. All must'wish that more satis-, factory arrangements could be made, but in a civilised country they could not stand by and allow people to starve or bo in a state of distress. A gr-eat deal depended on conditions improving in overseas countries which took our produce. Anything which im-. proved their position would improve the position in New Zealand. While he recognised that it was the duty of chambers of commerce to. point out what in their opinion Rhould bq done, onp sometimes felt that they were a little impatient when results were not immediately obtained. "I think I can claim that the Government has endeavoured to meet the situation as it has arisen," said Mr. Forbes. Mr. Forbes said there was no doubt the conversion scheme was going to 1..c of very great benefit .in relieving the burden of the "people of this country. Thero |vas also the promise oC a reduction in tho overdraft rate, which ought to assist those in business.' The Government was1 trying to bring down costs, and was steadily' keeping up the pressure.. It was, however, inipossiblo to accomplish these things immediately. It was not. always possiblo to bring down costs immediately when prices fell. He frankly realised that, in view of the reduction in the national income, further economies were necessary. CO-OPERATION OF ALL CLASSES. "We cannot get out of our troubles," said Mr. Forbes in' conclusion, "unless with tie co-ogeratioa pg «ves2 alas a,

of the community. We have got to pull together, and do our best to.make others see what is fair and equitable. What we' have to see, and what you gentlemen ha,ve to see, is that whatever arrangement is made is that which will appeal to the common sense and feeling of justice in the minds of every section of the community."