AMENDING BILL

Hokitika Guardian, 27 February 1932, Page 5

AMENDING BILL

ARBITRATION AND CONCILIATION WELLINGTON, Feb. 26. It is proposed in the Government’s Bill that all disputes must be referred to the Conciliation Board. This authority is to be strengthened, and given actually final power to deal with disputes, as the parties cannot go further unless they are unanimous that specific points shall he submitted to the Arbitration Court for decision. Those who support the new Bill consider that employers and employees are equally desirous of maintaining stable conditions in industries, for an employer would he unable to tender with -confidence for large works unless ho felt sure of being protected from the undesirable competition of underrate workmen. Conciliation Boards under the new conditions of holding the final power will have greatly improved standing. Formerly either party could have a dispute referred to the Arbitration Court, following the Conciliation Council hearing, or could decline to proceed before the Conciliation Council. It is considered that the strong desire for uniformity in maintaining fair conditions will make the conciliation system thoroughly workable. There has been some discussion of other phases of labour legislation, including restrictions on apprenticeship, but it is understood that the amendment to the Arbitration Act does not deal with this question.