PUBLIC WORKS AND UNIONISM

Southland Times, Issue 23610, 10 September 1938, Page 8

PUBLIC WORKS AND UNIONISM

MR FORBES OBJECTS TO COMPULSION “TEST OF EMPLOYMENT SHOULD BE ABILITY” (From Our Parliamentary Reporter) WELLINGTON, September 9. Objection to the principle of compulsory unionism was expressed by the Rt. Hon. G. W. Forbes (Nat., Hurunui) during the discussion on the Public Works Statement in the House of Representatives today. Mr Forbes said it was not right in a democratic country that a man working for the State should be compelled to join the New Zealand Workers’ Union or else forfeit his job. “It has always been a recognized principle in this country,” said Mr Forbes, “that a man employed by the State enjoyed the full rights of a citizen.”

Mr A. S. Richards (Lab., Roskill): Who took away the postboy’s freedom? Mr Rorbes: No freedom was taken away. What was done was done to prevent deterioration in the Public Service. Government members: Oh!

Mr Forbes said the best test of employment in the public works should be ability. If a man was fit to do the job he should be allowed to do it irrespective of any organization between the Minister and the men. Today men on public works were forced to subscribe 2/- to the Labour newspaper and another 2/- to Labour propaganda. Any man rejected by the workers’ union would be debarred from employment in any industry governed by an award. The principle was wrong and the Government should face up to it.

“I believe in unionism,” added Mr Forbes, “but I don’t think it should be compulsory. A man should be allowed free employment in the country in which he lives.”

New stocks of Men’s Sports Coats, Men’s Flannel Trousers and Men’s Suits have just been opened up at Carter’s Clothing Store. This firm is temporarily overstocked and will give you a bargain in anything you require in Men’s or Boys’ wear.—Advt.