IN BRITAIN.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 12066, 23 July 1917, Page 5

IN BRITAIN.

THE CORN PPODUCTION PILL

goyetixmext opposition to IXCREASEP FABM WAGES. Australian and N.Z. Association. (Revived July 23. 10.30 a.m.) COXDOX, -Tilly 22. Tli-: " Daily X'mvs" says thai- the Government "will oppose; Mr Waidle s amendment to th■> Com Production Bill seeking to soeuro a.u increase 111 the agricultural labourer's wago from 2.'>s to 30s. notwithstanding that tho Bill provides farmers with a, largo bonus to stimulate production. A lobby correspondent, believes tho Governmcnt is riding for a fall, and ivil! be ready for a- election without carrying electoral reform. INDUSTRIAL UNREST THE CAUSES AND THE CURE. COST OF LIVTXG TX BRIT ATX. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association ■ iJ I-! .enter (Received July 23, 12.40 p.mA LOXDOX, July 22. The report is published of tho Commission of rnrpiiry into industrial unrest. Mr G. X". Barnes, KMmmarising the. reports of the eight district commissions, says they show a strong feeling of patriotism 011 the part of employers and employed, who are determined to help the State in the. present crisis. Feelings of a revolutionary character are not. entertained by the bulk of the workmen. On the contrary, tho majority are sensible of the national difficulties.

All the, commissions emphasise- tho fact that the loading cause of unrest js tho increased rost of living and tho unequal distribution of food. They believo that tho profiteering operations in connection with munitions of war are undoubtedly a serious cause, particularly thrr.'ugh the restriction of workmen's opportunities for selecting their sphere of labour, while changes in tho working conditions, especially the introduction of female, labour, have been mado without consultation with tho workl>coplo.

Tho causes of unrest, which are local and not 'universal, include inadequate housing, liquor restrictions and industrial fatig'ue. There is also a prevailing feeling that, pledges are, no longer observed a.s before the war, and there is woeful uncertainty as regards tho industrial future.

The commissioners recommend, inter alia:—

Firstly, an immediate reduction of food prices, the Government to some extent having increased tho prico of food, and a better system of distribution.

Secondly, that labour should participate in affairs ajid oomniunioato as partners rather than as servants. Thirdly, that there should bo a closer contact between employer and employed.

Fourthly, a larger discretion should bo granted Pensions Committees in tho treatment of discharged soldiers. Fifthly, the agricultural wages in the western area should bo raised to 25s weekly.

Sixthly, tho abandonment of coloured labour at ports.