7 MARCH 1947, Page 17

PAYMENT BY RESULTS Srg,—The Government's decision to recommend " payment

by results " is surely a tacit confession that the main principle of Socialism has failed. If the more efficient worker is to receive a bonus above the basic wage, either this will increase the total wage-bill, proving a further stage towards inflation, or else his increase must be counter- balanced by reducing the wage of the less efficient. As one end of the seesaw goes up the other goes down below the level of the basic wage, resulting in less employment for the inefficient and unemployment for the " slacker." This return to principles which Socialists have always condemned, especially at elections, is surely significant.—Yours faithfully, C. WILLETT CUNNINGTON.

The Nothe, West Mersea, Essex.