PRESIDENT ORDERS AN INQUIRY

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 129, 18 February 1918, Page 6

PRESIDENT ORDERS AN INQUIRY

ALLEGATIONS OVER SHIPYARDS CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS MAY FOLLOW Washington, February 15. As the result of allegations that twenty-hve million dollars (over £0,000,000) have been squandered in the construction of Government shipyards at Hog Wand, in Plrladelphia, President Wilson has ordered an investigation with a view to criminal proceedings if they are justified. ■ It is seini-officially stated that Britain and the United /States produced 2,064,000 tons of shipping in 1917, whereas the sinkings are estimated at 6,000,000 tons. America's production for 1918 will show a tremendous increase.

The New York "Tribune's" Washington correspondent states that the Government may seize the control of all shipyards. • "v The Government has assumed control of all coastwise, lake, and water transportation.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. APPEAL TO SHIPYARD STRIKERS. New York, February 15. Mr. 15. Hurley, chairman of tho Federal Shipping Board, urges shipyard strikers to resume • work as a patriotic duty, and thus enable America to send a continuous supply of munitions and food to France. It is announced that six shipyards are to be taken over by the Government. A Washington message states 'that the Government is likely to take drastic action in taking over the ship-yards.—Aus.-N.Z., Cable Assn. WORLD'S RECORD IN SHIP CONSTRUCTION. (Rec. February 17, 5.5 p.m.) - Washington, February 16. Mr. Daniels (Secretary for the Navy) has announced a world's record in ship construction. An American battleship has been launched four months after the keel was laid.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. GIGANTIC POISON" GAS PLANTS. (Rec. February 17, 5.5 p.m.) Washington, February 16. The Government is building two gigantic: poisou gas plants for use by the Americans on the Western front. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.