OTHER PAPERS’ OPINIONS.

Putaruru Press, Volume VI, Issue 253, 6 September 1928, Page 4

OTHER PAPERS’ OPINIONS.

PRUDENT INACTION. There are times when inaction is more statesmanlike than a bold attempt to force a, decision. The present is such a time as regards legislative action for a settlement of industrial arbitration issues. In some quarters the Government may be accused of lack of courage in postponing legislation, and were the issue different this accusation might be justifiable. The presentation of conflicting demands is not always an excuse for a policy of laissez faire. Often it is imperative that the people to whom the business of a government has been entrusted shall recognise their duty to lead, because they cannot follow opposing parties bent upon going in different directions. It may become necessary for the Gov- 1 eminent ultimately to decide the direction for itself in industrial reform;

but at present the lead that is most advisable is one which will draw the interested parties together. If a measure of reform acceptable to all parties can be discovered its prospects of successful operation are infinitely brighter than the prospects of a dictated peace which is certain to leave one party rebellious and may fail to give satisfaction to any. The search for solutions acceptable to the partners in industry is now commanding great attention. It is not yet a free and unimpeded search. There are obstacles to be overcome: the obstacle of incomplete understanding of the other man’s point of view, and the obstacle created by a refusal on occasions to acknowledge any .partnership in industry. Organisation methods designed to secure the biggest share possible of the product of industry are not quickly or easily adaptable to a new scheme based upon recognition of the common interest of capital and labour. The progress made at the National Industrial Conference, however, gives ground for hope that a new era of agreement in industry may yet be ushered in. It is, at least, worth working for.—Evening Post.