HARMONY IN INDUSTRY

Waikato Times, Volume 123, Issue 20690, 28 December 1938, Page 4

HARMONY IN INDUSTRY

Though he is using a new broom, the Hon. P. C. Webb has made a promising start with the administration of tlie portfolio of Labour by issuing an appeal to all parties for co-operation in a national effort to attain industrial peace and increased production. There has been too much friction, he says, and he asks for the abandonment of pin-pricking methods by employers and workers. It must be apparent to all thinking men that the problems the country must face can be met successfully only by the united efforts of all parties. Since wages and all responsibilities have been increased it is essential that labour should do its part by returning a fair day’s work for the wages paid. Certainly the great majority of working men are doing their duty nobly, but there is a small section to which Mr Webb refers which is not only not pulling its weight but is spreading undesirable ideas amongst honest workers. For the good of the country it is to be hoped the new Minister will implement his promise to discipline those few who spread the vicious doctrine that men may enjoy ease and good wages without giving something in return, and those who seek to overthrow the rule of democracy. On both sides of the contract there is still room for the rationalisation of relations between employers and employed, and the Minister’s appeal may have good effect in causing both to realise their responsibilities. Mr Webb speaks of his intention to “co-operate to the full with the Federation of Labour to promote the best interests of industry.” He must realise also that similar co-operation is necessary with all concerned with industry. Those who contribute capital and management are just as essential to prosperous industry as is labour, and it is the duty of the Minister to maintain a proper balance. Improvement of the conditions of labour, or even the- disciplining of labour will not maintain industry in a prosperous state unless industrial activity in all its aspects is encouraged. It would be futile to attempt to make an industry a haven for workers if in the process the industry itself were doomed to extinction.