Sun Yuanzhen immediately put forward his idea. "Once the seaport is built, Zhejiang's textile industry will surely expand to more than triple its current scale. That alone will absorb a great deal of labor, not to mention the surrounding economy the port will drive once it is completed. At the very least, I can guarantee that the problem of displaced people can be completely resolved."
Pan Yun said, "Will displaced people be turned into workers, or farmers into workers?"
Sun Yuanzhen paused.
Pan Yun continued, "I heard that dyers in Zhejiang earn less than eighteen copper coins a day, and the dyehouses deduct around three coins more as management fees. Dyers fall ill easily. Fifteen coins a day may be enough to support oneself, but supporting a family is impossible. And if they fall sick, things become even harder."
"Lord Sun, whether you turn displaced people into workers or farmers into workers, they must be given sufficient protection. If they cannot support their elderly parents and raise their wives and children, then this temporary peace will only be brewing a greater disaster."
Yang Zan hurriedly said, "Lord Sun and I have discussed this matter as well. For now, our focus is on turning displaced people into workers. We must first find them work and let them settle down, then raise wages and use laws to establish a minimum wage."
Sun Yuanzhen nodded as well. "The authorities will lead by example. Wages for constructing the seaport will be two to five coins higher than current wages. Afterward, I will personally meet with the major trading houses, agree upon a minimum wage with them, and only then issue the decree."
For matters as detailed as these, it was difficult for the Imperial Court to issue an edict, and even harder for such