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facts brought out in evidence before the Commission. It was conclusively proved that the existing basic wage for labourers was not a living wage having regard, particul- arly, to the great increase in the cost of rice and of rent. Such a labourer, at the end of 6 years service, draws at present $11 per mensem + $2 good conduct allowance. He would generally be married and probably have a child or two. I was much struck by the restraint shown by men in this position and the candour with which they presented their domestic budgets; and I formed a strong opinion that they could not live on their pay.
An answer given by one witness may be taken to illustrate the position. Asked how he had managed to keep out of debt, he answered that if, at the end of the month, his resources were becoming inadequate, he and his family missed out a meal each day.
I can readily appreciate the strain it would be on private employers to increase the pay of labourers in existing commercial conditions in the Colony, but that is an object- ion based on expediency. If you look at the question from the point of view of the labourer the need of such an
increase in his wages as is recommended by the Salaries Commission is made abundantly clear.
An admission is made by the Committee that the salaries of the Senior Government Officers are inadequate, and no adverse comment is made on the statement in the Salaries
Commission Report that many officers find it impossible to support themselves and their families in reasonable
comfort on existing salaries. In the latter class of officer it is suggested by the Comittee that "individuals might receive special consideration with a view to bringing their salary level up to that of the generality of Government employees".
I confess I find some difficulty
in
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