NO WAGES RESTORATION

Taranaki Daily News, 18 September 1934, Page 9

NO WAGES RESTORATION

t HAWERA HOSPITAL SALARIES NARROW MARGIN AGAINST MOVE. MEMBERS’ OPINIONS DIVIDED. LEAP FROM THE GOVERNMENT. A motion to increase the salaries of the Hawera hospital staff by 5 per cent, was lost by five votes to four when it was considered by the Hawera Hospital Board yesterday. It was pointed out m support of the suggestion that the lead had been given by the Government and that a general rise in wages would put more money into circulation and increase the flow of trade between New Zealand and England. The other view was taken by the majority of members. The produce market was not as good now as last year at this time and the position was rather precarious, it was stated. The wish to raise salaries was present, but it was not considered wise to do anything before the end of the financial year in March. . He hoped the board would reinstate 5 per cent, of the 10 per cent, cut, said Mr. F. Gillanders. The Government had given a lead, and their finances seemed healthy enough. Mr. W. G. Simpson seconded the proposal and pointed out that other public bodies, including the Patea Hospital Board, had given a lead. Mr. Harrison said the total cost of restoring the 5 per cent, from September to March would be £2OO. Dr. J. Caimey, the superintendent, said all salaries were paid at a certain figure, less 10 per cent. Mr. J. S. McKay said the cut had been forced by the Government and although it was said they had turned the corner the price of produce was not improved. It was hard to understand and looked like electioneering. ' There was more discussion, the only question being whether the finances would permit the restoration. Mr. Simpson said he did not think the £2OO would make any difference. The important thing was to keep money in circulation and that was why the restoration of cuts was so important. A 5 per cent, rise all round would mean a 5 per cent, improvement in trade. Mr. Simpson commended the Government for having given a very good lead to a desirable movement . Mr. Bridger said a restoration would mean confidence and put money into circulation. . Mr. S. J. Bennett disagreed, considering any increased salary would be laid aside. Messrs. T. A. Winks and A L. Campbell thought that while they would like to make the increase it would, be unwise to do so owing to the precarious state of the country’s industries. They preferred it to be left till the end of the financial year. The motion was lost by five votes to four.