CONDITIONS AT HOME

Evening Post, Volume CXVI, Issue 19, 22 July 1933, Page 14

CONDITIONS AT HOME

TREATMENT OF UNEMPLOYED COMMENTS OF MR. JORDAN, M.P.

Several interesting topics, arc commented upon by 'Mr. W, J. Jordai^ M.P. for Manukau, in a letter dated May 22, written by him. from London to Mr. H. B. Holland, Leader of the Opposition. He refers particularly to tho treatment received by the unemployed

at Home,

"The action of the Government ia reducing the excise duty on beer, provided it is stronger, is recognised as an endeavour to get the people back to tho 'Oh, well, come and have a drink' frame of niißd. i> says, Mr. Jordan. "There is not the hang-dog look about the people that there was in. the last quarter of last -century and tho first quarter of this.

"The Conservative Party is divided on the question of bettor treatment for the unemployed, and a living is assured to the people. The unemployment benefits are paid irrespective of the person's possessions; in fact, the means test is not being applied except after a long" time and when the possessions arc appreciable. In any case, a military pension must not be considered unless it is on account of total or almost total incapacity. Eent ia Plid in addition to a living allowance in cases where it is necessary. Local bodies all over the place are, restoring the wage cuts, and newspapers are advocating increased wages. A growing number of people have" given up worry' ing about higher wages, and are openly advocating abolition of the wage system. "Tho introduction of tho officer class into the Police Force has caused a stir. The policemen are powerless, as there is a well-organised and somewhat efficient special (voluntary) constabulary which will be used on the ordinary duties'if the men slow up in any way. However, there is no thought of disorder here; there is a genuine desire to make things better, and that 'will find expression at the next election."

Mr. Jordan added that he hoped to arrive in Auckland on August 2.