DISTRESS RELIEF

Evening Post, Volume CXX, Issue 17, 19 July 1935, Page 9

DISTRESS RELIEF

ACTION AT HOME

COMMISSIONER'S REPORT

COUNTER TO POLICY

United I'rcss Association—Bsy Electric Tclo-

grapli—CouyriKjit.

LONDON, July 17.

Mr. Malcolm Slewrirt, Commissioner for Distressed Areas, in his first report recommends increased pensions at 65, slioiler working hours, a compulsory week's holiday on full pay, the scll.leiiisnt of 2000 families on the land, shorter hours in suitable industries with the help of Government subsidies, State ownership of mining royalties, ancl production of licences for new industries protected by tariffs, provided suitable pledges are given in respect to labour. He suggests reopening negotiations with the Dominions for Empire migration.

Mr. Stewart stressed the inadequacy of his powers.

BLENDING OPTIMISM AND PESSIMISM.

The report is a curious blend of optimism and pessimism. It declares that the outlook for coal is not bright, but the future is hopeful if scientific methods are employed. The report advocates a reorganisation of the steel industry, while admitting that it would bring more distress in special areas. It criticises quotas, saying it is impossible to understand how a system of control bolstering inefficiency can be to the national advantage.

The "Manchester. Guardian" declares that the Government did not expect Mr. Stewart to become a nuisance by stressing his limited powers, which it would embarrass the Government to extend, as his recommendations are counter to its policy.