INCREASED WAGES

Hokitika Guardian, 30 April 1940, Page 3

INCREASED WAGES

WANTED BY TRAMWAYMEN.

(Per Press Association —Copyright)

AUCKLAND, April 23

A claim by the Auckland- Tramway and Omnibus Employees’. . Union for an increase of 8 per cent, on the wage rates set out in the existing award to meet the increasing costs of living was discussed by representatives of tiie union, supported by representatives of the Federation of Labour, At a meeting of the Auckland Transport Board. !

The clause under which the claim is being made provides that if the cost of living in Auckland is increased or decreased by a full 5 per cent) or more, as compared with the cost of living at the commencement of the agreement, then either party may? require a revision to be made in rates of wages.

The board decided that the clause should bo referred to.the Court of Arbitration for interpretation, and if the Court should not uphold the claim for 8 per cent., then it should be asked' to declare the increase to which the men were entitled under the clause. The effect of the board’s decision will' he that for the first time since the economic changes caused by the enactment of the Labour Government’s legislation and the outbreak of war, the Arbitration Court will he asked to assess any increase in the cost of living in relation to wages. The clause under which the claim is made, provides that proof of a rise or decrease can be given either through a pronouncement of the Arbitration Court or through the official reerods of the Government Statistician.