Rationing of Workers.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 368, 9 March 1932, Page 6

Rationing of Workers.

To the Editor. Dear Sir, —When this controversy com* menced I had hopes that we would be treated to an intellectual exposition of the merits and demerits of rationing of work and wages. Alas, I have been sadly disappointed. Instead of the expected, we have had the unexpected—two good Labour councillors indulging in recriminations. The most remarkable part is the willingness of the “ capitalist Press ” to publish the vituperation that has been the essence of the statements and replies of our two friends. Challenges have been thrown out; these have been unfortunately turned down, and the game goes on, and the weary reader is left to diagnose far himself the effects of this “ scheme ” which would allegedly “ relieve ” some of the distress in our midst. May I suggest that our two friends stop throwing mud at each other and occupy their spare time in helping to throw bricks at the fellow that is responsible for the conditions that so urgently require attention. If the worker is responsible for the prevailing misery and distress, then it is only right that he should be made to suffer for it. If, on the other hand, he is not responsible, why should he be asked or forced to place himself on the sacrificial altar? I am not trying to influence any of your correspondents. If they are workers they ought to know how to act. I have long since made up my mind as to the cause of the distress and the remedy that will remove it—not for forty—but for all who are prepared to render social service. I am generally referred to as a Socialist. The appellation suits and I accept it with pride. Tommy, Ted, Taffy and the rest of you who are workers, you are needed in a real fight, so stop squabbling and do your duty! —I am, etc., JOHN MATH ISON. 15, Alexander Street, Richmond.