BRITISH RAILWAYMEN

Dominion, Volume 13, Issue 48, 20 November 1919, Page 7

BRITISH RAILWAYMEN

A NEW SETTLEMENT COMPROMISE ON NATIONALISATION By Telegraph—Pross Association-Copyright London, November 16. Addressing the railwaymen at Bristol, Mr. J. H. Thomas disclosed tho Government's terms, as a compromiso on tho men's demands for nationalisation. It was intended, he said, to constitute a board of five general managers and five representatives of tho Railway Unions, invested with plenary powers over wages and conditions. Whenever a deadlock eventuates the dispute is to bo referred to a temporary bonrd, on which tho general managers, tho unions, and tho public will bo equally represented. It was also intended to set up local bodies, on which tho managers and nien would bo equally represented, to deal with local griovances and other matters; three representatives of tho unions were to join tho existing railway committeo of general managers, in order to assist in the administration of railways with their practical knowledge and experience. Tho terms would not affect tho men's right to strike, which Mr. Thomas declaredl would never be given up. Standardisation of wanes would also be arranged with the Government 'beforo the new machinery was constituted. Mr. Thomas contrasted tho Government's offer of a slmre in the management of tho railways with his pleadings to tlio companies a few years ago for recognition of the union. He urged the men to accept the offer. Ho believed, ho said, tlio plans would improve tho men's conditions, and ensure tho smooth working of the railway systems—Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn. AMERICAN WAGE SCALE RAISED. Washington, November 16. The railroad administration has granted increases in wmres totalling 35 million dollars annually.—Aus.-N.Z. Cablo Assn.