LABOUR LEGISLATION

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 303, 20 November 1936, Page 8

LABOUR LEGISLATION

EMPLOYERS’ REVIEW. Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, Nov. 20. The success of the congress of the Associated Chambers of Commerce of the Empire was referred to by Mr Norton. Francis in the course of his presidential address at the annual meeting of the Associated Chambers of Commerce of New Zealand to-day. He paid a tribute to the work of the Wellington executive and officers, and also of the officers of the Tourist Department. In that connection the visit of their oversea friends had done much to provide an object lesson to the businessmen of New Zealand in its co-operation and unity. The Socialistic character of many recent Acts of Parliament was the main theme of the address. Mr Francis stressed the dangers of precipitate Government action having insufficient regard for sound and proven principles and the inexpert administration of Socialistic powers, and drew attention to the increasing disregard for constitutional safeguards. He said it was to be hoped high prices would be received for exports during the period of experimentation. Mr Francis said that if the Government exercised all the powers it had taken of late very substantial additions would need to be made to the ranks of the Public Service. Pie asked could the stand the cost, and would business be able to move in its straitjacket. New Zealand had launched out into the middle of the stream on what was plainly an adventure.