UNEMPLOYED PROBLEM.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21143, 29 March 1932, Page 10

UNEMPLOYED PROBLEM.

WORK IN THE COUNTRY. GOVERNMENT'S NEW SCHEME. Several matters in connection with relief work were laid before Mr. A. Harris, M.P., yesterday, bv a deputation representing tbe Northcote Unemployed Association. The chairman of tbe association, " Mr. C. L. Duke, said the ever-diminishing fund available for workers under No. 5 scheme was keenly felt at Northcote, where the married men's allowance, in particular, had been gradually reduced since tbe beginning of the year. Replying, Mr. Harris said allocations from the unemployment fund were made on a uniform basis, and no differentiation was made between districts. There was no intention to discontinue scheme 5. The trouble was that local bodies could not find the work. There was going to be nothing in the nature of conscription of men for camps. Revision, however, was going to bo made to afford opportunity to men to go into the country, settle on the land and become producers. Under tho new proposal it was hoped there would be no "stop week." With the small amount of money received it was impossible for relief workers to maintain mortgage, obligations, and Mr. Harris said proposals would he brought, forward by the Government to reduce interest rates throughout New Zealand. It was realised that reductions of fixed charges, as well as wages, should be made. With respect to the Arbitration Amendment Bill, his vote was given in tho interests of tho unemployed throughout. Now Zealand. It / would now be possiblo for employers to provide far more work.