RAILWAY WAGES REFERRED TO BOARD.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XLIX, Issue 13906, 6 November 1919, Page 2

RAILWAY WAGES REFERRED TO BOARD.

By Telegraph.

(Special to the Oamaru Mail.) WELLINGTON, November 5

Mr Massey announced to the House that the question of wages increases to the second division of the railway service was being referred to a board which would be set up to consider a number of railway questions. The hoard was being asked to take into account the cost of living changes since March last, when the agreement was made with the second division raihvaymen. The board would be asked to report within three months, and to submit an interim report on the wages if necessary. Mr Veitch suggested that consideration .of the cost of living figures since March last would not cover the ground, because the railwaymen complained that the wages tliev drew did not cover the increased cost oi living during the whole war period. Mr Massey replied that -war bonuses equal to -£45 per annum had been made permanent, and the board would now inquire whether the wages at present paid were adequate and whether the conditions could be improved. - Replying to a question from Mr Veitch. the Premier said he would not definitely promise'fo consult railwavinen's societies regarding the order of reference but he would consider it. He thought the point was not specifically mentioned in the House.

The Premier has undertaken that any.recommendation regarding wages shall operate as from March 31st.