N.Z. WORKERS’ STATUS

Grey River Argus, 20 September 1937, Page 5

N.Z. WORKERS’ STATUS

HON. H. T. ARMSTRONG Draws a Comparison WITH OTHER COUNTRIES. [Per Press Association], AUCKLAND, September 19. "The workers in New Zealand are as well off as those in any other country, but that is not saying that wc have not yet got a long way to go,” said the Minister of Labour. Hon H T. Armstrong, who returned by the Aorangi to-day, after an extensive lour abroad, which included a visit to the Coronation and attendance at the International Labour Conference at Geneva. Mr. Armstrong stated that New Zealand was more advanced than most countries in its recognition r humane social prniciples, and could claim a place in the forefront in that respect. At the same time, there were undoubtedly examples to be found abroad in which the employers had advanced further than in New Zealand in realising that the money spent on improving the health, comfort and conditions of the workers while at their job was sound expenditure. A marked improvement, in the conditions of employment had occurred in most overseas countries, he said, during the past few years, and in some countries, which were supposed to be backward, this improvement was particularly noticeable. In Great Britain and in some of the European countries, many employers catered for the amusement of their employees and placed theatres and educational facilities at their disposal. In France and in Germany he stated, the workers were paid during their annual holidays of from eight to 15 days, and special travelling and hoarding facilities were also allowed them to enjoy their vacations to the full.

Comparing wages with the cost of living overseas, Mr. Armstrong said he was quite certain that it would be impossible for workers in other countries to maintain the standard of living of the Dominion worker, There were some countries, such as Canada and the United States, where the salaries were actually higher, but the cost of living was also much great, so that the workers did not have any advantage as far as real wages were concerned. In none of the countries visited did he think that commodity prices were, on the whole, lower than they were in New Zealand. Mr. Armstrong said that he had a number of proposals, covering a wide range of social and labour problems which he proposed to submit to Cabinet. "I am perfectly sure that New Zealand will benefit greatly as the result of my tour, particularly if we copy the best and reject the worst,” Mr." Armstrong added. Mr. Armstrong was met. by the Hon. P C. Webb on behalf of the Government. He leaves for Wellington to-morrow night.