Single Men and Sustenance

Manawatu Times, Volume LVI, Issue 7067, 28 January 1933, Page 6

Single Men and Sustenance

PROTEST TO MINISTER In connection with tho grievance of the singlo men as regards their treatment by tho Unemployment Board, the following petition has been signed by these men and handed to the local office to be forwarded to tho Minister of Employment:— "Wo, tho unemployed single men of Palmerston North, having duly considered the fact that wo are refused work, hereby demand sustenance in accordance with the Act. Wo unreservedly refuse to go to relief camps under present conditions. Tho continuous harping about the voluntary nature of the camps is so much humbug. We resent the ultimatum of ‘Camps or starve,’ and as a united body of workers we call upon the Government to make provision for us by honouring its promises under tho Unemployment Act. Lot tho Government provide work, and we will do it—at standard rates of pay and under standard conditions. We are not going to start a slave camp bore, and it is about time tho people who talk so much about equality of sacrifice tried a little of it.”

Tho singlo men and other relief workers have had several meetings sinco tho interview with tho Mayor and the Hospital Board last Tuesday, and a mass meeting has been convened for Monday night next at Rangitikei street, where tho position will bo further discussed.