BRITISH CONFERENCE

Hokitika Guardian, 6 July 1928, Page 2

BRITISH CONFERENCE

FAVOURS A NATIONAL COUNCIL.

(United Press Association.—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.)

LONDON, July 4

The immediate formation of a National Industrial Council to enable the continuation of the improvement in industrial reorganistion and industrial relations, was the chief recoin mend a* tion of the Committee reporting on the Conference of Employers and Trade Unionists, which Lord Melchctt inaugurated. A full meeting of the Conference today accepted the report. It is proposed that the Industrial Council should consist of an equal number of the Trade Union General Council, and representatives of employers nominated by the Federation oi British Industries and the National Confederation of Employers’ Associations. It will hold quarterly meetings,for general consultation on the widest questions concerning industry and industrial progress, and also establish and direct machinery continuously to investigate industrial problems, and, further, to establish a joint Standing Committee for the appointment of Conciliation Boards.

The report emphasises that the most helpful element would he the strengthening of good relations on both sides, including a broader recognition of joint responsibility.; avoidance oi stoppages, with provision for a joint Standing Committee of t'en-n-side, who would ne empowered to discuss relation disputes, and all questions affecting industry.

The report recognises that the Trade Union Congress is the most effective organisation to discuss and negotiate alf questions relating to the whole field of industrial organisation. While negotiations would he facilitated by the workers becoming Unionists and the employers being organised, the report deprecates any form of victimisation cither by workers or employers. At to-day’s Conference over which Mr Ben Turner presided, he proposed the adoption of the report. He claimed the report would he the basis of national understanding and development. He omphasied the large numbers who were looking hopefully towards its outcome.

Lord Melchett, in seconding, referred to the Committee’s unanimity. He said, six months ago he would not have thought it possible to' present such far-reaching resolutions, so fundamental and influential for the future of industry. Tlie Conference accepted the report, with one dissentient vote. It is understood that the Conference Joint Committee are continuing discussions. LONDON, July 5. Comment on the Industrial Report is guarded, but generally favourable. The Daily Express, while expressing the opinion that the country’s gratitude is due to the originators of the Conference, points out that there are twelve million insured workers belonging to the Unions affiliated to the T.U.C. The present report protects one-third of the workers from victimisation .by the employers, and leaves two-thirds unprotected, from possible victimisation by Unionist. The country will want an assurance that the Conference has laid the basis of justice between worker and worker, as well as between worker and employer.