FREE RUSSIA

Waikato Times, Volume 121, Issue 20189, 8 May 1937, Page 9

FREE RUSSIA

MR NASH’S IMPRESSIONS. PEOPLE HAPPY AND HOPEFUL. SUCCESS OF SOCIAL LEGISLATION. United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. CopynguL (Received May 8, i p.m.) LONDON, May 7. “ I am convinced that Russia cannot be neglected from all viewpoints, particularly trade,” Mr W. Nash told the Australian Associated Press. His visit had shown that the possibility of RussianNew Zealand trade was limited at present, but he had had worthwhile and valuable discussions with the Commissars of Foreign Trade and foreign affairs and finance, and many other officiate, whloh Indicated that the position might be Improved.

Mr Nash discussed trade and working conditions, wages, prices and social insurance with M. Schvernik. general secretary of the trade unions, the membership of which is 25,000,000. It is calculated that on a «»even-day week basis the hours worked are slightly in excess of 40 a week, but, admitting that the country knew little of mechanisation and started with an untrained personnel, the progress has been remarkable, although at present the working efficiency was below western standards.

His impressions of Moscow were that gigantlo tasks were being achieved, and that the people were happy hopeful, and aotlve.

He inspected the advanced medical centre at Moscow, which was a splendid example of the new spirit of Russia. With a like enthusiasm for devotion and service to hymanity other countries of the world would be advanced. The natural objective was the fullest life for all. On behalf of New Zealand Mr Nash extended good wishes for the success of the work. An Interesting Experiment. He spent a morning at Bolshevo, a town of 12,000 people, many of whom were convicts and probationers who had been allowed to take part freely in the communal life and work at standard rate** of pay in the factories. It was an interesting experiment and the principle and procedure should be extended.

He paid a tribute to the freedom with which he wa*» allowed to travel and ask questions. Remarkable friendliness was shown him everywhere.