CO129-623-1 Rubber Industry- report and correspondence on the labour situation 1-4-1950 - 31-1-1951 — Page 39

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V. Perusal of the two main left-wing papers of the vernacular press reveals no evidence in support of this allegation.

VI.

The general allegations that the management was:

(a)

(b)

(c)

anti-unions generally,

deliberately setting a pattern of action for other employers, and

prepared to discriminate against the Hong Kong Rubber Shoe Workers' Union in favour of the Hong Kong & Kowloon Rubber & Plastic Workers' General Union, cannot be accented.

They arise naturally from the misconception of the causes of the closure already referred to and from the jealousy which exists between the two unions. It is a fact that the members of the latter union have shown far more restraint and far more readiness to face the realities of the situation and this no doubt has annoyed the rival union.

VII. This is admitted. It is most unfortunate that the management of this factory should have failed to appreciate the effects of such an action and the hardship which it would inevitably entail. The fault, however, lies with the Managing Director in Malaya who has placed his local representatives in an impossible position. Such sudden closures are by no means uncommon among the smaller Chinese firms, but it is indeed surprising and distressing that this course of action should have been followed by a firm of the standing and importance of the Fung Keong. You will, I am sure, appreciate that in the circumstances there was nothing which could be done in Hong Kong to prevent this unfortunate occurrence and, in view of the fact that all of the workers were either on piece-rates or daily wages, they have no legal claim for wages in lieu of notice.

17.

I have considerable sympathy for the workers involved in this matter and I think it is fairly easy to understand the misconception which has lead to the writing of the letter by the local Trades Union Council. I would, however, like to give a word of warning against too ready acceptance of statements which are contained in letters of this nature. In spite of their high-sounding titles, neither the Council nor the Federation are composed of men of sufficient experience in trade union matters to appreciate the need for a thorough investigation before committing themselves to statements of alleged facts.

In particular the Council is at the moment somewhat excited by the attention it has received from the I.C.F.T.U. and its leaders are very anxious to stress the importance

of their organisation and its international connections.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient,

Manctumble servant,

GOVERNOR.