CONCILIATION COMMISSIONERS.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIV, Issue 9347, 16 January 1909, Page 5

CONCILIATION COMMISSIONERS.

HON. J. A. MILLAR INTER- : VIEWED.... Per Press Association. Wellington, January 15. Some further details in connection with the appointment of Oonciliaiton Commissioners were given to a New Zealand Times’ reporter by the exMinister of Labour, the Hon. J. A. Miliar “What is the salary attached to the office?” queried the pressman, and Mr Millar named £SOO per annum, adding that the two Commissioners took up their duties immediately. Where are they to be stationed? is another matter which greatly interests the industrial world, and the Minister, when asked if he could enlighten it on the subject, replied that this had not been settled definitely. There might be a third appointment, he continued. At first it was thought that two Commissioners would be sufficient, and it was considered doubtful whether three would have up the work. Personally, I favour appointing three, but that it is one of the questions for my colleague, the new Minister of Labour to inquire into and decide. Whatever happens the Commissioners will have well defined districts, su that they can get closely into touch with industrial affairs and secure uniformity of awards. Where the products of an industry are interchangeable, yon must keep the conditions of manufacture such as wages aud®hours approximatelyjthe same all over the Dominion, otherwise there is an unfair advantage to one district or another, a position we seek to prevent. Then the Commissioners will keep in close touch with each other?

Yes, but if an agreement has to be made affecting the same industry throughout the country such as exists among the seamen and the bootmakers, it will be for the Arbitration Court to hear the evidence. These arrangements have so far been mutually agreed upon between the employers and the workers. It is a delicate and important arrangement but I feel that the whole thing will work out successfully. It lies practically in the hands of the Conciliation Commissioners, If they show tact and judgment, it will be a success.