U.S. Wage Stabilization Board 1952 United Steelworkers of America Case

A work stoppage in the steel industry was threatened for Dec. 31, 195l, since various companies engaged in ore mining and the production of basis steal had been unable to negotiate a new contract with the United Steel Workers of America to replace the one that expired on that date.

The union presented a list of 22 demands, relating to a general wage increase guaranteed annual wage, paid holidays, inequities, shift and geographical differentials, over time, improved vacation periods, and other economic and non economic demands.

The companies took the position that any increase in wages would not be in the best interest of the country since any increase in costs of producing steel would require an equivalent increase in steel prices.

The President referred the dispute to the Wage Stabilization Board, which in conjuation with the Office of Price Administration was endeavoring to develop an anti-inflation program during the period of the Korean War.

The Wage Stabilization Board appointed a special panel consisting of

Harry Shulman, Chairman

Ralph Seward

Admiral Earle W. Mills

John C. Bane, Jr.

Arnold Campo

Eli Oliver

at a procedural meeting on Jan. 7, 1952. On January 10, 1952 the Panel began hearings which continued until Feb. 16, 1952 The panel presented its report to the Executive Meeting of the Wage Stabilization Board on February 29, 1952 and the full Board discussed the recommendations of the panel until March 19, 1952. The final report of the Board was presented to the President on March 20, 1952.