SHORTER WEEK IN AUSTRALIA.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXIII, 2 June 1926, Page 9

SHORTER WEEK IN AUSTRALIA.

General Agitation Proposed

COMMONWEALTH ADOPTION PROPOSED.

By Cable—Presa Association—Copyright ,Australian and N.Z. Cabin Association. (Received June 1, 10.35 p.m.) MELBOURNE, June 1.

The interstate conference of Trades Hall delegates framed comprehensive proposals for the establishment of the 44-hour week throughout Australia. The Victorian Unions have been directed to make immediate demands to their employers for a 44-hour week, and there' will be a general agitation throughout the Commonwealth by lunch hour meetings. It is also proposed that the buildings trades at present enjoying 44hours week, be instructed to ask for 40 hours.

SITUATION UNCHANGED. RELIEF MEASURES IN OPERATION. By Cabla—Press Association—Copyright, Australian and N.Z. Cable Association SYDNEY June I. The coal situation is unchanged. A deputation from tile Miners’ Federation waited on the Chief Secretary (Mr C. C. Lazzarini) and asked that the Government should provide relief for miners who are suffering in consequence of the strike. Mr Lazzarini intimated that arrange, ments would be made for the establishment of Relief Committees on the coal fields. Mr Gibson, the engtno drivers’ general secretary, states that negotiations are in progress for a settlement of the dispute at three collieries on the northern fields, but the resumption of work after the 44-hours strike will not be altogether complete owing to a number of men obtaining work elseivliere. Tho secretary of the Coaclimakers Union stated that some employers had refused to re-employ a number of hands, and the matter was to be referred to the Disputes Committee of the Labour Council. A hitch occurred in the motor body building industry over the interpretation of a clause in the agreement, and four shops have not reopened. Certain members of the Iron Workers Assistants’ Union have been told that their services are not required. * The employees at the Broken Hill Proprietary's steel works are not affected by the agreement;. Negotiations are well in progress fot a settlement of their dispute.