THE BREACH OF FAITH.

Grey River Argus, 22 July 1922, Page 7

THE BREACH OF FAITH.

I MASSEY AND CIVIL SERVICE. PREMIER STATES lIIS CASE. WELLINGTON, July 21. Referring to a statement by a representative of the Public Service Association that the Government had committed a breach of faith in regard to the terms of the understanding entered into, Air Massey is emphatic, that no such breach wrs committed. Reviewing the whole position, he said, that in April, 1919, each officer received an increase approximating £45. There was a further increase in the cost of living and the Uniformity Committee recommended an additional £5O. 'i'his was granted on condition “tint provision should be mad© for a rateable increase or reduction should the cost of living rise or fall.” This was clearly understood at the time. When early this year it became necessary to reduce public expenditure only the £5O increase was dealt with. On the figures supplied to the Government and verified by responsible officers, it was clear that a reduction of £26 would be justified in salaries from £l9O to £320, but only £25 was taken off. It was no! I reposed to interfere with the £45, though no one could say definitely what might be necessary in years to come. He had no lies’)-tion in saying that the Government had in no way departed liom the recommendation of the committee, nor had it committed any breach oi faith. He had interviews with deputations, and one of the points raised was there should be no alteration unless there was a rise or fall of 10 points iu the cost of living figures. This might be what the Secretary of the Public Service Association had in his mind, but the Government had had no communication from the Uniformity Committee on the matter, and he had clearly indicated he could not accept the proposal, as the state of the fin: nces would not permit. He did, however, agree to delaying the second,/* cut till Jiuy 1, and the third till the beginning of next year.