Twelve Hours and Why

Steel directors unanimously declare that steel workmen shall work 12 hours per day. The morality of the steel business becomes at once a subject for salon, schoolroom and soap box debate.

Three years ago was published the report of the Interchurch World Movement condemning the steel business as unchristian, particularly in respect of the 12-hour day. The 12-hour day, it said, injured health and ruined home life.

One year ago the President asked the steel directors to investigate. They did. Last week their committee reported that the 12-hour day was in no way injurious, and was essential to the economic happiness of the United States. The report was unanimously accepted by 130 steel directors, assembled at the Hotel Commodore, Manhattan. President Harding is deeply disappointed.

Judge Gary says the steel workmen favor the 12-hour day. Samuel Gompers says he is mistaken.

Judge Gary wants more immigration. That is just what Labor does not want.

Republicans, if they oppose the 12-hour day, will alienate some business men, and they may or may not win votes.

The report summarized:

The 12-hour day has not been injurious physically, mentally or morally.

The workmen prefer the 12-hour day because it means more money per day.

Owing to rest periods, steel workers suffer less fatigue in 12 hours than other men in eight.

The world needs large production without increased cost. The eight-hour day would add 15% to the cost.

The eight-hour day would call for 60,000 more workmen. Owing chiefly to the immigration laws, no additional workmen are available. So that even if the public accepted the

15% rise in prices, the eight-hour day is now impossible.

The signers:

Gary, U. S. Steel.

Farrell, U. S. Steel.

Block, Ireland Steel.

Burden, Burden Iron.

Campbell, Youngstown Sheet and Tube.

Dinkey, Bethlehem Steel (Midvale) .

Grace, Bethlehem Steel.

King, Jones and Laughlin.

Topping, Republic Iron & Steel.