PRICE LEVELS

Grey River Argus, 8 September 1945, Page 2

PRICE LEVELS

FEDERATION OF LABOUR. SEEKS REDUCTION..

At the last meeting of the West Coast Trades Council, it was reported that the National Council of the Federation of Labour had decided that, now that general wage claims of the workers had been met, efforts would be concentrated on reducing the cost of living, and that, with this end in view, the representation of the Federation of Labour on the Stabilisation Committee and the Price Tribunal would be strengthened. Constant contact would be maintained between these representatives and the Federation Executive in order that prompt directives could be given when and where considered necessary. It was believed the had arrived when the upward trend in prices could be definitely halted, and reductions in maximum prices of some classes of goods (particularly clothing) should now be possible. The easing of the manpower situation would have some effect on the cost of production of the goods manufactured in this country, while, with the cessation of hostilities, insurance rates and war-risk charges on goods arriving from overseas would be greatly reduced. The full benefits of the resulting lowering of costs should be immediately passed on to the consumers. It was considered that, instead of pursuing a policy aimed at securing further general wage increases, the wisest course was to turn to the easier prospect of raising living standards by bringing about reductions in present price levels. The report was adopted by the Trades Council.