In 1924, the Industrial Conciliation Act was enacted by the South African Parliament. This legislation aimed to address industrial disputes by establishing negotiation mechanisms. Here are the key provisions:

1. Trade Unions: Employees were permitted to form trade unions. These unions would undergo approval, recognition, and registration processes.
2. Industrial Councils: Trade unions could then be represented on industrial councils.
3. Conciliation Process: Before a strike could occur, a process of conciliation was mandated.
4. Exclusion of Black Workers: Unfortunately, workers “regulated by any Native Pass Laws and regulations” (which primarily referred to Black workers) were excluded from the definition of workers. Consequently, they were not allowed to join unions¹.

This act significantly impacted the rights and representation of workers in South Africa during that era. It’s essential to recognize the historical context and the discriminatory practices that shaped labor relations at the time.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the work by Kiloh and Sibeko titled “A Fighting Union” ¹. Although this legislation has been repealed, its legacy remains a part of South Africa’s complex history.

Source: BingAI