Labour Shortage For Loo! Industries

Northern Advocate, 24 November 1947, Page 7

Labour Shortage For Loo! Industries

AUCKLAND, Mon. (Sp.).—Although the Government had revoked many controls, some affecting the manufacturer and his production were still operative.

Mr S. Howard Hunter, president of the Auckland Manufacturers’ Association, says this in his report to be presented to the annual meeting of the association tonight.

Mr Hunter says that although there were shut-downs of power and gas supplies during the year, conditions were generally not as bad as those experienced last year. The council felt that all steps should be taken to ensure the continuity of supplies of power to avoid even short shut-downs, and auxiliary plant should be secured to meet the demands in the anticipated difficult periods which lie ahead until the Waikato River hydroelectric power scheme reaches full development. 4 ACUTE LACK “The female and skilled male labour shortage is still very acute, although in the unskilled category a general easing of the position is evident,’’ continues the report. “Many factors enter the employment position and it would appear that some returns are completed on the assumption that the present market conditions will continue and that raw materials will be available for continuous production. “If these conditions are altered the change will be reflected in the ability of manufacturers to absorb the labour force which is shown on present figures to be required. BUILDING PERMITS “The association has appointed a special committee to consider all aspects of employment returns, and bring down recommendations to avoid duplication, simplify the questions asked, and ensure that the information secured would assist manufacturers to study trends and other aspects.” Mr Hunter adds that while the housing difficulties were appreciated it was felt that, without prejudicing any housing construction programme, but rather, in some cases, assisting it, some relaxation in the system of granting permits for factory building and necessary extensions was desirable. Some manufacturers engaged in producing urgently required materials or fittings had been unable to secure permits for buildings essential for the maintenance of present production.