LABOUR AND THE WAR

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17064, 24 July 1917, Page 5

LABOUR AND THE WAR

STRONG FEELING OF PATRIOTISM. BUT UNREST APPARENT. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association and Reuter. LONDON. July 22. The report has been published of the Commission of Inquiry into the Industrial unrest. Mr G. Barnes M.P., summarising the reports of eight district commissions" says that they show a strong feeling of patriotism on the part of both employers and employed who are determined to 'help the State in tne present crisis. Feeling of a revolutionary character is not entertained by the bulk of the workmen; on the contrary, the majority are sensible of the national difficulties. All of the district commissions emphasise the fact that the leading causes of unrest are tihe increased cost of living, the unequal distribution of food, and the belief that profiteering operations exist. The Munitions War Act is undoubtedly as serious a cause of unrest, particularly through the restriqtion of workmen's opportunities of selecting their, sphere of labor, while the changes in working conditions, especially the introduction of female labour, have been made without any consultation of the work people. Causes of unrest wiidh are local and not universal include inadequate housing, the liquor restrictions, and industrial fatigue. There is also a prevailing feeling that Ministerial pledges are no longer observed as they were before the war, and there is woeful uncertainty as regards the industrial future. The commissioners recommend, inter alia: Firstly : An immediate reduction of food prices, the Government to some extent bearing the increased price of food; together with a better system of food distribution. Secondly : That labour shall participate in the affairs of tihe community as partners rather titan as servants. Thirdly : Closer contact between employer and employed. Fourthly : That a larger discretion be granted to Pensions Committees in the treatment of discharged soldiers. Fifthly : That agricultural wages in the western area be raised to 25s weekly. Sixthly : The abandonment of coloured labour at the ports.