LATE NEWS.

Hokitika Guardian, 18 April 1917, Page 4

LATE NEWS.

Per Press Association.— Copyright CURTAILMENT 7 OF TRAINS.^ Drastic Proposals. Commence on Monday. WELLINGTON, April 17. The Minister of (Railways made wie following statement this evening: “Consequent on the shortage of coal the Government, considers that Ithe time has now arrived when it is imperative to curtail transport facilities, although the depot has fair stocks of coal it has not been able to build up reserves, and a draytic curtailment is not needed. Without waiting for the staff saving scheme to drive them which was to have been inaugurated at the beginning of May. From Monday next, therefore, the coal saving service begins. “All goods trains will be limited to strictly essential goods such as pt-i - ishable goods and fodders.

Builders material, flax, content, vehicles, minerals, (except coal anl coke) are not to be carried.

“It is alyo desirable for those away front' home to return by Saturday next.’’.

THE STRIKE CRISISA Hastings Resolution NAPIER, April 17. The Hastings 6*hamber of Commerce to-night after discussing, the seriousness of the industrial unrest at present manifesting itself in the coalmining districts of New Zealand passed the following resolution.—“ That this Chamber suggests) that mass meetings bo held in all centres to give an expression of public opinion on the action of the men resorting to the strike weapon during the crisis, and the war for democracy and individual liberty, and feel confident that the better sense of the people of the Dominion expresfjad at such mass meetings will load the strikers to realise the seriousness of their action, and return to work.

In Mexico. EL PASO. April 16. , According to the United States Army officials, 100,000 Mexican troops ate mobilising on the border. It is believed that Carranza is asking Congress for another 100,000 men.