20 MAY 1938, Page 18

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

[Correspondents are requested to keep their letters as brief as is reasonably possible. The most suitable length is that of one of our " News of the Week" paragraphs. Signed letters are given a preference over those bearing a pseudonym, and the latter must be accompanied by the name and address of the author, which will be treated as confidential.—Ed. THE SPECTATOR] THE CHURCHES AND THE COMMON LIFE [To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR]

SIRS I am responsible for the management of a business which provides employment for about 70 people. I am told that I am a good employer, certainly I am anxious to do all that I can for the welfare and development of the people with whom I work.

During the last few years particularly I have done all I can to answer the criticisms levelled against modern industry for I believe that it is my responsibility to provide a place of personal freedom where every man finds some means of self-expression in his daily work.

But, having gone as far as I can within the framework of the present structure of industry, although I have provided every means of material well-being—the real problems are still present if dormant ; departmental friction, jealousy, laziness, irresponsibility, &c.—symptoms of individual and personal frustration. Together we have been able to create new conditions but I know that what is needed sail, is new men, and I, as a managing director, just as truly as the parson have to find and show the way of really getting human nature changed.

In my own business experience I 'have seen that unless men are different, changed industrial conditions simply create a superficial artificial ethical community. I believe that the problems of common life in industry will be solved when management and labour—and capital too—are directed by men whose policy in industry and whose personal lives are deliberately intended to be under the authority of " Thus saith the Lord." With this as my own objective I personally need the stimulus and challenge and experience of a re-vitalised

church.—I am, Sir, your obedient servant, DIRECTOR.