UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 18 June 1931, Page 4

UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM

———<*•» THE people of New Zealand are looking to the Government to take the necessary measures for continuing No. 5 unemployment scheme. It is true that in ordinary cases it would bo entirely wrong for the Government to exceed iis powers, and it is of the greatest importance that Governments recognise that they must not endeavour to usurp Parliament’s powers. At the same time, in this particular case, especially when the Leader of the Opposition has already expressed his willingness to co-operate, it is the Government's duty to make the necessary provision without delay. New Zealnnders arc not unmindful of their duty to the unemployed. They feel the responsibility is theirs, and they will shoulder the responsibility. But it is bettor in every way that the help should come from one source. Thousands without work to-day have never before experienced want in the same way, and they are prepared and eager to give full service in return for assistance. That some continue to do as little as possible for wha.t they receive and appear to waste what they get, must not bo allowed t<> hide the plight of the great, majority—sturdy citizens overtaken by the misfortune of unemployment through no fault of their own. Whether a man is unernployed or not depends largely on the effect of the slump upon the calling or occupation lie has followed. The Government, acting for the people as a whole, should make the necessary provision, and so long as there is money in the country, the cost will lie met. It may be added that an avenue for private endeavour is in providing work round their homes by people able to absorb such labour. A day or two’s work per week in ail cases when opportunity offers would make a great difference to the unemployment problem.