This Act, which set up the first compulsory system of state arbitration in the world, was the culmination of years of effort by trade unions to be recognised and to obtain minimum rates of remuneration and enforceable standards of working conditions. Conciliation Boards were established in each district, elected by employers and workers. If the decision of a board proved unsatisfactory, an appeal could be made to the Arbitration Court, which consisted of a Supreme Court judge and two assessors elected by employers’ associations and the unions. The Act stimulated and protected unionism and provided opportunities for leadership and negotiation involving women and addressing their concerns.