SECRET BALLOT.

Dominion, Issue 1337, 15 January 1912, Page 4

SECRET BALLOT.

$ AMONG THE TRAMWAY MEN. It was thought possible that somo new development might arise in tramway matters yesterday, on account of .the meeting of the Tramway Employees' Union, which was hold iu the morning. However, a reporter, who saw tho secretary (Mr. Sutherland) just prior to .tho meeting, .was informed that there was really nothing hut tho ordinary monthly business to transact, and that the matter between the City Council and tho union ro Inspector Fuller would probably not bo mentioned. At all events, there would be no announcement to make. From Mr. Sutherland's remarks it was gathered that nothing serious would be likely to happen until after the next mooting of tho City Council. Prom inquiries made in different quarters, there appears to be a diversity of opinion as to what will bo tho outcome of the trouble. Some members of the union nre confident that the City Council will grant what is asked by the union, and that, by tho end of tho month, tho matter will hnvo passed beyond notice. Others, again, think that the council will refuso to treat further with the union, and then will come the real trouble. "These men, when they were olocted, undertook tho management of tho city affairs._ Wo shall see if they are capable," said one tramway man, significantly. . Tho employees (so far as can be gathered) are not unanimous in their decision to strike if certain things happen, but -it seems probable that, if the majority vote in favour of a strike, every member of tho union will obey the call. It is understood that a secret ballot on the question was commenced yesterday, but it may not be opened until January 25, and the result will certainly not be known before that date.