A BIG STRIKE

Hokitika Guardian, 26 September 1918, Page 3

A BIG STRIKE

A SERIOUS POSITION

BRITISH RAILWAYMEN

[PER PH MRS ASSOCIATION.—COPYRIGHT.] (Received this day at. 1.30 p.m.l

- LONDON, September 2;j

Employees of the Great Western ana North London railways have joined the strike, dislocating suburban traffic. Many workers are unable to reach their work. The storm centre is in South Wales, where there are thirty thousand strikers, and the same number of minors idled in consequence. There is a general condemnation of the strike by the rest of the community. Cardiff and Carmarthen railwaymen decided to return to work, pending a settlement. Many soldierg on leave are unable to return to the front and thousands of munition workers in the hack country are prevented from reaching the factories. Goods traffic has ceased. The Croat Western, Midland and .Nor-th-Western railways are affected to a [ess extent. Lord Stanley states the War Cabinet were determined not to alter the settlement reached last week, which the railwaymen’s representatives approved of. THE COUNTRY HELD UP. (Received this dav af 1.30 p mA LONDON, September 25. Though the strike situation was threatening yesterday afternoon, its sudden extension to-day was a complete surprise to the authorities and tho public as it was believed the recent generosity of tlio Government towards the railwaymen was generally recognised. The strike is almost wholly confined to drivers and firemen who continue &0 demand a 10s. advance, though their Union has definitely accepted ss. Lord Stanley announces that Government has called on the Naval and Mill-

tary authorities for carrying on tho service necessary for the transportation munitions and supplies. He says Government will not re-open negotiations with the strikers.

It is officially stated that Government takes a serious view of the strike and is prepared to act drastically. Latest information is that practically the entire Great Western Railway system is affected and small portions o» the North-western, Southwestern and Midland systems.

Government- feels sure it will have the support of the public and loyal railwaymen, and is prepared to give the latter military protection, if required. The strikers had flouted Government and the people and their own representatives in completely ignoring the country’s interest. The men have been treated '/onerously and ft. only remains for .Government to see tlieir action does as little harm ns possible.