MOSES M. KOTANE

In a statement issued by the Communist Party on the proposed legislation to place African trade unions on a new basis some very interesting revelations are made and we publish this statement because it sheds kight on an important aspect of our struggle for full recognition. . . We know enough of the Government's intentions regarding the status of Africans in industry. But what are we doing to influence the shape of the proposed legislation? Are you sure that your organisation has done as much as it should to try to influence the Government to bring African workers under the existing industrial legislation? It is absolutely imperative that all progressive organisations, as well as all individuals who would like to see South Africa develop industrially and socially should bombard the Government with resolutions and telegrams rejecting the idea of a separate law for Africans, and demanding the recognition of African workers under the Industrial Conciliation Act. If we do not exert maximum pressure, the Government will carry out its reactionary intentions. We must act before it is too late.

- Moses M. Kotane, "Recognition of African Trade Unions", Inkundla ya Bantu, April (Second Fortnight), 1946.