5
formative years is important. This inspection is unlikely to be regarded as strictly impartial, and for this reason, it is undesirable that the work of the work the Registrar of Trade Unions should be carried out by officers of the Department of Labour. While suggesting amendment to the Trade Union and Trade Disputes Ordinance, advantage should be taken of the section of the Ordinance which imposes registration fees.
5.
Trade Union Federations.
The Government's action in refusing to recognise these bodies as trade union organisations is justified on factual and policy grounds if not on legal grounds.
The welfare of the workers is of secondary consideration to both federations, and when strike action has been taken they have merely prolonged the strike or hindered settlement, Their existence has hampered the development of good industrial relations.
What they want is power without responsibil- ity. They persistently boycott meetings held for the purpose of electing workers representatives.
The law should be amended to provide legal status for federations of trade unions exclusively on an occupational or industrial basis, and that the amount of contribution from a union to a registered federation should be limited by rule. The necessity for a federation must arise from the desire of registered trade unions with similar aims and problems to consult together for the common good.
6.
Workmens Compensation
A comprehensive Workmens Accident Compensa- tion Ordinance is now nearing completion and this is later to be extended to cover industrial disease risks. It is recommended that consideration be given to the introduction of a draft bill on the basis of the draft in Appendix 10.
The proposal would secure that an injured worker was always assured of full benefits under the Ordinance.
7.
Employment Code Legislation.
Existing labour legislation is deficient in several respects and as a result, officers of the Department of Labour carry out their duties with inadequate authority and backing. In addition, workers are not adequately protected.
6.
A suggested Employment Code is at Appendix The proposals would give greater protection to employers and workers until such time as matter of this kind can be settled joint negotiation without
Government intervention.
18.