INDUSTRIAL UNREST.

North Otago Times, Volume CV, Issue 13939, 24 July 1917, Page 3

INDUSTRIAL UNREST.

REPORT OF BRITISH COMMISSION' OF INQUIRY.

(Per Cnlilc—l'ress Association—Copyright.) (Australian and N.Z. Cable Association and Renter). LONDON*, July "2.

The report is published of the com mission of enquiry into industrial mi

Mr G, N. Barnes, summarising the reports of eight district commissions, says that they show a strong feeling of patriotism on ihe part of. \\w employers and employed, who are determined to help the Slate in the present crisis, Feeling of a revolutionary character is not entertained by the bulk of the workmen; on the contrary the majority are sensible of the national diiculty. All the commissioners emphasise that the leading cause of unrest is the increased cost of living, the unequal distribution of food, and the belief that profiteering is rife. The Munitions of War Act is undoubtedly a serious cause of trouble, particularly through the restriction of workmen's opportunities of selecting their sphere of labour, while changes in workmen's conditions, especially the introduction of female labour, have been made without consultation with the work people. The causes of unrest, which is local and not universal include, inadequate housing, liquor restriction and industrial fatigue. There is also a prevailing feeling that pledges .are no longer observed as before the war, and there is woeful uncertainty as regards the. industrial future,: The. Commissioners recommend, in'or alia.— .Firstly—The immediate reduction of food prices, the Government to some extent bearing the increased price of food, and a better system of. distribution. Secondly—That labour participate in affairs and'communicate as partner! rather than as servants, Thirdly—Closer contact between employer and employed. Fourthly—That a larger discretion be granted pensions committcos\in the treatment of discharged soldiers, Fifthly—That agricultural wages in the Western area be raised to 2as a week. Sixthly—The abandonment of coloured labour at ports, x