PUBLIC INQUIRY NEEDED

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23085, 9 July 1938, Page 14

PUBLIC INQUIRY NEEDED

Blame for the notoriously slack working conditions on the New Zealand waterfront was placed upon the employers and shipowners by Mr. A. Campbell, the Labour member for Chalmers, speaking in the House of Representatives. He asserted they caused friction with the workers and failed to co-operate with them. More frequently the onus for the present state of affairs has been placed on the workers. Charges have been levelled against thsm by members of Parliament, farmers' organisations, and chambers of commerce as well as by those directly concerned in working shaping. In meeting such charges last September, officers of the Auckland Waterside Workers' Union contended that much of the extra cost in the loading and unloading of ships was due to the system on the waterfront. Here is a direct conflict as to the cause or causes of waterfront delays and one that in the national interest should not be left undetermined. The high cost of working ships handicaps farmers in their competition in world markets and raises prices on all imported goods. The matter should not be allowed to drift at the expense of the community. A public inquiry should bo held to iind out the causes and, if possible, to remove them. Such an inquiry has been requested by farmers, business men and the Auckland waterside workers. Mr. Webb, when acting-Minister of Labour, undertook to suggest to the Government that an inquiry be held into Auckland conditions. Nine months have passed, no move has been made, from time to time employers or employees are blamed, and losses accumulate. The Government should not allow such an invidious position to persist but should refer it to impartial and public investigation with a view to discovering causes and applying remedies.