SCOUTS’ EARNINGS

Franklin Times, Volume XXXII, Issue 4, 13 January 1943, Page 2

SCOUTS’ EARNINGS

ON PUKEKOHE FARMS .JOB WHERE GIRLS EXCEL ‘•JI has long been understood that Maori girls used to the work would at any time earn more Ilian scouts,” staled Sir Joseph Smith in a report to the Auckland District Council of Primary Production on Monday, on the subject of earnings of hoy scouts employed in bean and pea picking at Pukekohe. This was a fact that all disgruntled parents, and Ihe public, should appreciate, Ihe report stated, and added tliat on Saturday last some while girls Ihe same age as Ihe boys were working alongside the boys and earned twice as much as them. An interesting comment made by the, employer was that while Ihe girls were chatting and laughing among themselves they were still picking beans, but when Ihe boys wan led lo chat they stopped picking. Extension of the Gamp The conclusion arrived al by the scout commissioners, after interviewing represenlalives of Ihe Pukekohe Growers’ Association, was lo plan for an extension of the scouts’ camp in February, reported the Chief Commissioner. and the Primary Production Council was asked to consider the desirability of applying through the education authorities, for this extension for a maximum number of (10 boys.

Sir Joseph Smith stated that Ihe boy scout camp at Pukekohe was bright and happy, though nol earning a lot of money. The boys were showing the right spirit, largely influenced by seven of Ihe lirsl group, known as “the Pukekohe Pioneers.” who took the view that characterforming should be put before (he immediate earnings. The chairman. Mr R. C. Clark, said that inquiries had been made by Mr \V. Alexander. Ihe council's secretary, and il had been found that the boys had been paid ruling wages. Mr M. McDougall (Pukekohe) said it had been proved that the boys wove not only paid much above award rates, but had been generously treated ol herwise.

The council decided to make Ihe suggested representation to have some fill boys exempted from school allendance in February, should I heir services then be required.