HEARING EXPECTED TO BE OPEN TO PRESS

Chronicle (Levin), 21 April 1947, Page 5

HEARING EXPECTED TO BE OPEN TO PRESS

press. Associatioit

WANGANELLA TRIBUNAL SITS TODAY

By Telegraph —

WELLINGTON, April 21. The Government's legai opinion on uie empioyers' conuoTiuion mau there is no authority to exclude the press and public from the Wanganeiia speciai payment claims tribunal, established under the Strixes and Locxouts Emergency Regulations, was not being reieaseu satu uie cnairman., Mr. b. Rnchie, this morning. It was expected, however, that the proceeamgs mtended to be held this afternoon wouid be open. 'Ine tribunal met this morning, when the chairman placed the legai posiuon before representatiVes of the trade unions, and discussions were held lh committee for 40 mmutes. No appearance was made by the empioyers' representatiVes, who adnered to the attitude that they wouid refrain from atoending uiitn there was a definite runng oy the Governmeht on the question of oppn or ciosect proceedmgs. They were flrm in their contention that the press and puolic shouid be admitted, except when the tribunal was deliberating. Subsequently it was stated on behalf of the empioyers that in view of the apparerit decision to admit the press and public, they wouid attend this afternoon's proceedings. It was indicated also that the uniort representatives wouid be present. Xo is understood that consideration is likely to be given to having an advocate for each side in the dispute, and also to the taking of evidence on oath. ,