SHOPS AND OFFICES BILL.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXXXV, Issue 169, 21 July 1903, Page 2

SHOPS AND OFFICES BILL.

DEPUTATION TO MR SMITH, M.H.B. Ox Monday morning a deputation from the business people of New Plymouth waited upon Mr E. M. Smith, to ask bim to use his influence against the passing of certain objectionabb clauses of the Shops and Offices Bill. The deputation consisted of Messrs Gwdacre, Wbi:aker, Parker, Skeates, Blythand Teed. Mr Goodacre, as President of the Tradesmen's Association, explained the views of the deputation, and was followed by Messrs Wbi'aker, Parker, Blyth, and Teed, who each set out Very forcibly and concisely the objections to the Bill, particularly as it affected their own business. Their remirks were very similar to the views expressed at the late public meeting, which was fully reported. Replying to the deputation Mr Smith said that in accordance with his usual custom he had sent copies of this Bill to the secretary so that it cjuld be considered by those interested or affected, and he was glad the Association hid taken the matter up. The views expressed were identical with those he had enunciated when the Bill was first introduced, as would be seen by a reference to bis speeches in Hansard. He should have much pleasure in acting on the representations made to him by those present. He was altoge her with them in opposing a compulsory Saturday half holiday. In regard to arrangements for stocktaking, the clause should be expunged and the matter left to the employers and employees, as there must be give and take in business. He recognised that it might oiuae financial hardship to poor people if they had to produce a medical certificate to obtain articles from ohemists on holidays. It would mean a 7s 6d certificate to purchase a 6d article. The proposal to allow Mayors to declare statutory holidays might plaoe Mayors in awkward positions. Mr Smith asked the deputation to let him have their objections in writing, He promised to let them know from time to time how the Bill was going, and to do his best to give effect to their wishes,