BOOTS FOR UNEMPLOYED

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 76, Issue 109, 11 May 1933, Page 11

BOOTS FOR UNEMPLOYED

GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSALS. MANUFACTURERS’ PROTEST. “TOUCH OF SOVIET RUSSIA.” [ Per Press Association. ] AUCKLAND, May 10. The Auckland boot manufacturers have been invited by the Unemployment Board to tender for the supply of 20,000 pairs of boots and shoes, comprising 5000 pairs of boys’ boots, 5000 of girls’ shoes, and 10,000 men’s boots. Strong objection to tho proposal was voiced to-day by both retailers and manufacturers, and the Retailers’ and Manufacturers’ Associations and the Chamber of Commerce will be asked to take the matter up. “It is a touch of Soviet Russia,” said one shopkeeper. “It is the thin end of the wedge, and will result in locking many of our doors.” Another retailer said that the principle could be extended so that everything the people ate, wore, or used would be supplied in the same way. It was understood that relief workers and families would purchase the footwear at a few shillings a pair, and the main cost be borne by the unemployment fun. The effect must necessarily be a curtailment of staffs in shops and so more unemployment. One manufacturer said that manufacturers were placed in a very awkward position, for the board could go outside Auckland with its order. The position was very seriou s and required much consideration. He suggested that it would be better for the go/er n mon t to subsidise the manufacturers to employ more men.