Shop Stewards
SIR—NO doubt there are many people who, like Robert Auld, d9 not know "what a shop steward's work is—or who pays him." The duties of a shop steward are laid down in rule, and among other things he is expected to examine and sign at least once a quarter the contribution cards of all members, to use every endeavour to see that all men starting are duly qualified trade unionists, and that all persons are receiving the approved rates and complying with the practice of the shop and district, and for these purposes to examine cards and pay-tickets, and to report to the district committee any case in which the position is not satisfactory and cannot be adjusted within the shop. To report regularly, and at least once every .quarter, in writing, to the district committee on all matters in the shop affecting the trade, and to keep the district committee posted with regard to all events occurring in the shop. To interview foremen or any other persons representing the management on any question arising in the shop or department, provided that no question involving a principle, change of practice, or stoppage of work shall be determined in any shop until it has been reported to and ratified by the district committee, and that in all matters shop stewards, conveners and committees shall act within the rules and principles laid down by the district committee and the executive council, and in national or district agreements.
The shop steward is paid 6s. 6d. per quarter, if he or she Submits a written report, and this is the only payment made. Trusting this infor- mation will enlighten Robert Auld as to work of a shop steward. On the question of thle wages of shop stewards "being charged to Labour election expenses," I am afraid Robert Auld will have to solve his own legal riddle, if one exists!—Yours faithfully, J. REID,
155 Fortress Road, London North District Secretary, Tufnell Park, N. W.5. Amalgamated Engineering Union.
Previous page
