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Steam-wagon Works and the

27th August 1914
Page 2
Page 2, 27th August 1914 — Steam-wagon Works and the
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

Training of Additional Drivers.

The shortage of steam-wagon drivers is likely to continue for some months to come, unless arrangements aye made for training new men at the various works which produce this type of vehicle. The position has arisen, as we have previously pointed out, through the calling of Reservists and other men to the Colours. These transfers of labour, in conjunction with the non-use for military purposes, othee than by hire through contractors, of steam wagons in connection with the present international war, have

upset all earlier calculations. Numbers of steamwagon drivers have been taken. although without reference to the employment which they were following, without a corresponding drain of vehicles. That is the simple explanation.

We hope that steam-wagon makers will realize the situation. The existence of a special plan on the part of one member of the industry,. is already notified to us, but not without a reservation in respect of publicity. We are none the less permitted to announce that a certain number of men have been "told off" for training, in order that this maker's customers may not find themselves incommoded when delivery dates come round. We believe that the intention in this case is to rely solely upon local men, and to some extent upon men who are already employed about the works, but not every maker may be in the position to find enough men that way for training. They may have to draw upon other sources of supply. If any such training scheme, which may not have to extend to a period longer than ore month, begins to fail because of a lack of men offering locally, we have no doubt that suitable announcements in connection with our " Employment Exchange" will bring about a sufficiency of applications.

We strongly commend the idea of the regularized training of fresh drivers to all steam-wagon makers in the country, having regard to the extra demand for that type of machine to which we confidently look fcrward. Orders in hand at the moment will cause further difficulties, and will accentuate the shortage which we have already noted. Makers might with advantage to themselves take steps to maintain a minimum number of men going through such training as they may judge to apply to respective output. If that course does not suit particular arrangements, or is contrary to any maker's own views of the eituation, we urge the expediency of sending rotational intimations to customers, at least a monthahead of the likely delivery date, drawing attention to the fact that a dearth of drivers has for the time being arisen, and suggesting to the customer that he should find and send a man to be trained.

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