MR. MONTEITH’S OPINION

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 84, Issue 189, 13 August 1940, Page 10

MR. MONTEITH’S OPINION

RISE SHOULD BE HIGHER CHRISTCHURCH, Aug. 11. Though not. dissenting from the Arbitration Court’s decision, the worker’s representative, Mr. A. L. Monteith, recorded the following:— “Since September 7, 1937, on which date the court announced its standard wage, rates, the cost of living (all groups) figure gives an increase of 10.6 per cent, to May 31, 1940,' It is correct to state that these standard rates did not become fully operative for (in my opinion) about 18 months. “It is also true that the workers will have to face increases in the cost of living for another six months before any further relief can be given by way of a general order. It is also a fact that the cost of living since the outbreak of the war has increased more quickly than was the case during the 18 months above mentioned. “I have carefully considered all these differences, and, taking into consideration the fact that our trade balance is very healthy, I am of the opinion that an increase of 7£ per cent, should be awarded. However, so that the workers can get some immediate relief, I am recording my opinion, but am not recording dissent from the order now made.”