THE ARBITRATION ACT

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 13768, 5 June 1908, Page 6

THE ARBITRATION ACT

In his speech, Mr. Massey also dealt with the necessity for amendment of the Arbitral ion Act, saying ho hoped the Government would reintroduce the Bill of last year, and expressed the opinion that something in the way of classification was absolutely necessary. By the operation of the law as it stood at present difficulties' were placed in the way of youths, desiring to learn trades. Ke thought a power of appeal from the Arbitration Court on points of law should be provided. In spite of the statements of Dr., Findlay, he (Mr. Massey) was strongly' of opinion that the working of the Act had a great deal to do with increasing; I lie cost of living, especially to married, men with fanilies; but, undoubtedly, the cost of living had gone up out of proportion to the increase in wages. Compulsory arbitration had failed, as far as this country was concerned, and an amendment of the law was required to make it more elastic and less harassing to both employer:, and employees, something which would conciliate rather than irritate.