TELEGRAMS.

Hokitika Guardian, 23 December 1922, Page 3

TELEGRAMS.

[by TELEGRAPH —PER PRESS ASSOCIATION ' A CONFERENCE. WELLINGTON, Dee 20. It is understood that a. eonlerence is being hold between the Shipowners’ Federation and representatives of the ■Seamen’s Union with reference to tlie shipping trouble, but there is nothing available lor publication. A meeting of seamen was held this morning, but nothing official was disclosed as to what had transpired. Later, the Executive of the union met, and it is presumed that discussion was proceeding with reference to the proposals of the shipowners. In some union circles there is a leeling that a. settlement of the seamen’s trouble is within sight, but there seems to be no warrant yet for this somewhat optimistic anticipation, as it is considered in other quarters that the union officials may be reluctant to accept the stipulation with regard to the permanent. retention of non-unionist crews.

HON LEE’S OPINION. j < CHRISTCHURCH. Dee 22. « “You know as much here as they do 1 in Wellington as to wliat is likey to ■ happen in the political world.” the j Hon Mr Lee said, in reply to a re- ; porter’s question 'io-'dav. Mr bee j added that his personal opinion was j that there were not many members anxious for a Irish election, and lie : thought it was likely that some means ; would be devised to render unnecessary j another appeal to the country before; the expiry of the three years for which j tho members were elected. Mr Lee’s suggstion was that some members wouldT'iml that their political: v ; o ws wore somewhat elastic, and cap- ; abio of adaption to circumstances. 1 That would remove the danger of a fresh election next year. j It was mentioned in Labour circles i to-day in Christchurch that Mr Wilford j liad already drafted a list of Ministers ■ in the event of Mr Massey finding. J when Parliament assembles, that he; cannot carry on. and Mr \\ illord is • called upon to attempt to take up the reins of Government. statement lias been in circulation in Christchurch Cor some days that it is likt-lv the Hon Dmvnie Stewart will be a candidate for the Speakership. It is understood to be without any foundation in fact.

WATTOMO SEAT. TE KUITT, Dee 22. A magisterial recount of the votes polled in Waitomo commenced tins morning. It has been found impossible to complete tho work before the holidays. An adjournment has been made 'till January TOth.