WORK IN WINTER

Hokitika Guardian, 17 May 1933, Page 2

WORK IN WINTER

FURTHER RELIEF ASSISTANCE

STATEMENT BY MINISTER

(Per Press Association Copyright.)

AUCKLAND, May 16

Several matters concerning the unemployed were brought. before the Minister of Employment, the Hon. A. Hamilton, yesterday afternoon by a deputation representing the Auckland Provincial Unemployed Association. Mr F. E. Lark' asked that fit single men should get full time at the present rate of 13s 6d a week. He suggested the Government should give a subsidy of £1 for £2 on money collected by the unemployed so they could arrange for medical attention to those of their number 'requiring it. He also asked for the abolition of the stand-down week in the country districts.

Mr W. Bromley, a member of the Unemployment Bioard, said the only way to give the country workers a greater allocation would be by taking something' from those in the city. A question raised by Mr D. Petty, president of the Grey Lynn Unemployed Association, related to work during wet weather. • The Minister said this question had been the subject oh, considerable discussibh with the Wellington unemployed, but he would inquire how the practice in Auckland 'comparer! with that adopted elsewhere, The Minister said there would be work available in camps for all fit single men in Auckland.

It was stated by Messrs Lark and Thornley that representatives of the unemployed were denied ; access to officers of the board in Auckland. The Minister said that after his investigations in Auckland he could say that Mr W.v Slaughter,' the officer in charge, was doing his job ,as well as any officer in New Zealand, and he wished to pay his respects to hini for the able way in which he had handled the' posit-. ion. The workers might think he was somewhat hard, but the Minister was convinced ho had much practical sympathy for .the men, - : , ' , ■ -• ■ In answer to .a question whether, it was intended to increase- the allocations throughout the winter, the Minister said they were doing their best ■with the funds available. They had now arranged for a 'supply of boots and' they w;sre endqa vouribg to; provide; meat "again. They'wanted to do everything . possible to assist further arid were working on other schemes, but he did not think they could increase wages. It was, however, intended to start certain'■public works, and to provide (further assistance - outside the' cities.- ■ v