THE WANTS OF LABOUR.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LIII, Issue 16373, 30 October 1916, Page 6

THE WANTS OF LABOUR.

RISING COST OF LIVING. MINIMUM WAGE POSSIBLE. MUNICIPAL MARKETS. A. and N.Z. Cable. LONDON, Oct. 27. In reply to a deputation from the Scottish Trade Union Congress, Mr. Walter Runciman, President of the Board of Trade, said that owing to the increase of food prices the Government was considering the possi- ! bility of enforcing a minimum wage I generally throughout the industrial ' world, and opening municipal shops 1 for the sale of certain articles in some districts. SOURCES OF FRICTION. EFFORTS AT SETTLEMENT. WAGE-EARNERS' PROPOSALS. (Received 7.30 p.m.) LONDON, Oct 27. Committees of employers, trade i unionists, and members of Parlia'ment are negotiating for a general i settlement of the long-standing differences, including the unions' de- ! I mand for compulsory unionism, that i all workers shall have a forty-eight ' hours week, that thirty shillings shall be the minimum wage for adults, that there shall be no reduction in 1 existing wages, and no increase in 1 existing hours, that there shall be ! i complete recognition of trade unions, l land unemployment pay from the State, together with a settlement after the war of the conditions of 1 women''s labour. It is believed that 1 the present time affords a favourable opportunity for removing sources of • friction, and that the negotiations ' will assist in the resumption of nor- ' mal industrial conditions after the ' war. It is hoped that a settlement ' will be reached for a three years' ex- ' periment- Those negotiating are enlisting Government assistance. Mr. Runciman's reference yesterday to the minimum wage question has attracted increased attention.