MARRIED MEN IN FORCES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 March 1941, Page 7

MARRIED MEN IN FORCES

MAKING UP DEFICIENCY IN PAY. POWER BOARD DISCUSSION. (“Times-Age" Special.) At a meeting of the Wairarapa Electric Power Board held at Carterton yesterday afternoon the matter of the board, granting financial assistance to its married employees who enlist for military service overseas was raised by the chairman, Mr A. Campbell Pearce. "I do think that the board should help in some way.” said Mr Pearce. “Take the case of a married man who leaves a job of £6 or £7 a week — for one of say £3. We have two already among our employees. Their financial worries could be eased if the board could do something.” ■Mr H. P. Hugo: “1 quite agree. After all it is not their fault if they are eligible for overseas service and they have the same responsibilities as those remaining behind. I think it is up to the board to help to cut down their financial troubles. Some employers are making up the difference ini pay. I think we should make a grant.” Mr J. W. Colquhoun: "The matter is bristling with difficulties. It makes it a hardship on men not employed by a local authority. Some private employers cannot afford to make up the men’s pay. I think it will open up a hornet’s nest.” Mr F. C. Daniell pointed out that, in some cases Government regulations precluded any payment other than superannuation and keeping the position open. Mr G. Erown (Secretary-Manager): "In some cases the Government, are assisting through the State Advances Corporation.” "I think it will cause discontent. Very few companies or employers are making up rates of pay,” said Mr Colquhoun. Mr Hugo: “Lots are doing it whether they can afford it or not.” It was decided that a committee consisting of the chairman, and Messrs W. Howard Booth and H. P. Hugo bring down a report.