A LABOUR UNIONIST PROTEST.

Dominion, Volume 7, Issue 1915, 25 November 1913, Page 9

A LABOUR UNIONIST PROTEST.

Sir,—l have served for many years on tho executive, of my union, represented them 011 the Trades and Labour Council, and taken an native part in politics pertaining to labour (references enclosed). I also hold very radical political views. Having occupied tho positions I have, I- cannot be charged with lack of sympathy for labour. Nevertheless I unhesitatingly condemn tho present strike in its inception, continuance, and conduct. As their own president, Mr. Curtice, frankly said, tho waterssders broke their agreement fjxnn A to Z!

I do not wish to ontor at length into tho merits of tho watersido striko, as everyone knows all about it, the character of their leaders, and of many of their followers. But what surprises me, wllat astonishes me, is that any Arbitration Union, any decent and honourable body of men, can assist them with resolutions of sympathy and donations of money to continue tho stato of practical anarchy and intimidation which wo are nqw experiencing. The basis of liberty, whether political or industrial, is tho ballot-box, and those unions who deny their members this right, and those unions and individuals who support them in so doing, are, without a doubt, striking a deadly blow at the interests of unionism and liberty. 1 hope those unionists who liavo been misinformed or .have been led astray in tho heat of tho momentwill sea and recognise their duty, and act promptly aJttd honourably a.s men should. Radical politically and interested in the labour movement as I anu it i-3 my intention to support Mr. Massoy politically in futuro, instead of siding with the political forces which make for dishonour and disruption.—l am, etc., I . RADICAL. Wellington, November 24, 1913.