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15
(c) Unemployment.
I have sought the help of the local branch of the
Ministry of Labour and National Service who advise
me that during the year 1943 unemployment in this
area has been the lowest on record in both the men
and women's sections.
The demand for labour has considerably exceeded
the supply, consequently large numbers of workmen
have been brought into this district.
That there has been unemployment is largely due
to the fact that there must in every community, be
some persons who because of physical disability or
other reasons, are not able to work at all, or only
able to work in specially selected appointments, and
then perhaps only for short periods at intervals.
With special reference to female labour the year
1943 has produced in large numbers, a class of labour
not previously used to any extent; namely, part time
employment of women.
Reports received from the Employers show that
women engaged on part time work have, on the whole,
been very satisfactory and the demand is on the
increase.
The development of day nursery facilities to look
after the children during the time the mothers are
at work, has been of great benefit.
(d) Travelling Facilities.
The afternoon of September 24th was clear and
sunny, not too hot and not too cold—a beautiful day
even more wondrous than summer for those who
could stand the little tinge of chill creeping into the
autumn atmosphere.
It was a day to rejoice.