ABSTRACT
The world depression belatedly but acutely affected the demand for Native labour in the Northern Rhodesian mines. The Native population in large sections of the country was dependent on mine labour for the provision of ready money necessary for the payment of taxes and the satisfaction of multiplying wants. The working force on the two operating mines had been cut in half. As in European industry, this labour situation permitted the mines to make a careful selection of its workers, retaining only the more efficient and best adapted Natives. Perhaps the best method of evaluating the factors conditioning Native life both in mines and town locations is by picturing that life as an observer sees it. Statistics of mine labour compiled on the copper belt indicate that the married worker is more efficient, healthier, more contented and remains longer than the single Native. The mines are willing to carry the responsibility because of the improvement of their industrial efficiency.
