FOREWORD

The workshop was the first event organised by the Working Group, which has replaced the ISHS Commission on Labour and Labour Management. The commission's final three meetings, between 1978 and 1984, had not been attended well. Yet previously, for example at Montpellier, France in 1974, there had been excellent support.

Clearly it was desirable to attract more participants, for the organisers had no doubts as to the future importance of this subject area. Thus the programme at Wageningen was planned to attract a wider group of interested workers: labour in urban horticulture was one new element and particular emphasis was given to computer topics. This planning proved successful and it was welcome also that seven papers related to 'labour conditions', especially ergonomics.

The interest shown by those attending and those who tried to do so was most encouraging. Sixty-five attended - from America, Scandinavia, Germany, East Germany, France, England and The Netherlands. Hopefully, there has been a fresh start in this field. It was a pleasure to welcome many new faces as well as old friends. Much of the benefit from conference-going lies in the informal discussions and new contacts which are possible. The IAC gave a good ambience for such matters.

My sincerest thanks go to Peter van Lookeren Campagne of IMAG for his efficient and cheerful organisation of the meeting: he was helped by Marianne van der Schilden and Ton Hendrix. And I take this opportunity to thank Mr. K.E. Krolis of IMAG for his help and support in countless ways since the Working Group was formed.

J.A.H. Nicholson
Chairman
Working Group for Labour and Management