CAPITAL AND LABOUR.
[To THE EDITOR OF ens " SPECIaTini."1 SIR,—I have for a long time past considered that many of the strikes and misunderstandings between Labour and Capital might be avoided, and more harmony and good feeling lie brought about, in a simple way, by arranging for Labour to be represented on Boards of Directors of all railway companies and large manufacturing companies. My proposal is that in each case the workmen should be allowed to elect as their representatives on the board a certain number of directors in proportion to the numbers employed, where they could explain to their fellow-directors the men's views and grievances and suggest remedies for them, as well as from time to time bring forward proposals for improvements in working and out- put made by them. The Labour directors would have to take enlarged views of the difficulties of successful management, and of the great responsibilities involved, and both Capital and Labour directors would, by frequent intercourse and discussion, acquire mutual regard and respect each for the other, and also see that to every question there are at least two sides to be considered. Having been chief engineer and then manager of a large railway system of 1,700 miles in India, I write with practical knowledge and thirty-five ' years experience in the management of large bodies of men. It seems to me that my proposal is a practical one and easy to try, involving none of the difficulties of profit-sharing and similar proposals, and would also be inexpensive.—I am, Sir, &c., EDWARD W. STONEY, C.I.E., Mem.Inst.C.E.
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