COMPENSATION CLAIMED BY A DOMESTIC

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18016, 29 November 1926, Page 4

COMPENSATION CLAIMED BY A DOMESTIC

DID HOME-MADE SOAP CAUSE HER INJURIES? (Special to the “Star.”) AUCKLAND, November 29. The Arbitration Court heard a claim for compensation by Mabel Adelain® Oakes, domestic, against Alfred Holliday. She complained on July 10 of a swollen thumb, which she maintained was caused through the manufacture of two lots of home-made soap, on* cf the ingredients being caustic soda, which the doctor, who lanced th* thumb, said was the cause of th* trouble. She had signed a receipt for £7 2s 6d to the insurance company, giving a full discharge. She did not realise it was intended as a final settlement, thinking it was six weeks* sick pay, though she knew “they; didn’t want to come at any more.” His Honor observed that unless there was competent legal advice the receipt would not be binding. The Act aimed at protecting the worker from signing something that would not represent a fair settlement. The defence was that there was no accident and no incapacity, and that plaintiff had received a full settlement. An expert, giving evidence on some soap produced, said soapmakers tested by tasting the soap before sending it His Honor (poinur-.g to th.. exhibit): I suppose you wouldn't care to taste a bit of that? (Laughter.) The case was adjourned, counsel agreeing to submit written legal contentions. *