§ A Labour Adviser was appointed in June; during the past three months his task of developing the organisation of a Labour Department has been hampered by the necessity for dealing with urgent problems, such as the provision of relief in the Kingston area and a port registration scheme. A Labour Officer to assist the Labour Adviser has been appointed, together with an officer to develop statistical work and two investigation and conciliation officers. An officer is also in training to manage the Kingston Labour Exchange. The Labour Adviser proposes to establish sub-offices at three principal centres in order that Labour Exchange machinery may be in existence there, and also that the Central Office shall be kept constantly informed of the labour position.
§ The question of malnutrition to which Major Orde Browne calls attention is receiving consideration by the Medical Department.
§ Action for improved housing conditions is being taken by the Central Housing Authority, but it is feared that progress may be hampered by financial stringency owing to the war.
§ An effort is being made to secure greater continuity of employment on the waterfront by a scheme of registration of port workers.
§ A cost-of-living inquiry is now being made and it is hoped that this will produce useful results and be of value in considering wage rates. The statistical branch is collecting data on employment and it is hoped to arrive at figures which can be used as a basis in estimating the extent of unemployment.