TRANSFER OF LABOUR

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXII, 9 December 1938, Page 4

TRANSFER OF LABOUR

PROBLEMS IN EVENT OF STAFF DISMISSALS GOVERNMENT’S TASK U»i««n1 Hr.* AMoctatMiit WELLINGTON, This Day. In Wellington labour circles, it was gathered yesterday that little concern existed over any labour problems that might arise in the event of the Government’s import licensing system leading to a curtailment of staffs. It is stated that any such dismissals would release workers who could readily be absorbed in other industries. On the other hand, labour organisations are said to be cognisant of the fact that, while the building industry for one, could absorb a larger number of workers, there is a general reluctance to join this class of occupation because the conditions of work are not as attractive as in the distributive trader This would apply particularly to workers on weekly wages who were also receiving holidays on pay From the employers’ viewpoint it was stated yesterday that an issue the Government would have to face in the event of curtailment of staffs would be the transference of labour. The Government had stated that it would become increaalngly responsible for the operation of industry, and that the workers had no need to Worry. Obviously. however, dissatisfaction would be created if workers were compelled to accept employment in which th* conditions of work were less favourable than those previously enjoyed. The employers’ viewpoint was that the problem was essentially one for the Government to tackle. Employers had conceded their limit in relation to production and costs.