REPLY TO “MARTIAN."

Hokitika Guardian, 8 April 1924, Page 2

REPLY TO “MARTIAN."

(To the Editor). Sir. The parson signing himsell “Martian” in Saturday’s issue of the “Guardian,” further than satisfying his own vanity, has shown himself woefully ignorant of one ol the most important features of modern industrial development—in spite of his being well versed in the facts of mediaeval history.

Every intelligent working-man knows that the interests of the employer tend to cause him to offer his men a> little as possible for their services; and that combination, by the lattei', is necessary for their common protection. That is the elementary “raison d’etre" of Trade l nionisin. No m:m, claiming intelligence, should he ignorant of that fact. And the knowledge of such, together with that of lh- history of the working class, during the. past century, should inculcate the spirit of I'nionisiu. Every decent working-man inherits this spirit naturally, and consequently, when he goes on to a job, is eager to join the Union, rather than to avoid joining it. Those who stand on such trivialities its demanding to see the rules first, are merely “sparring for time,” and arc not, in their hearts true to their fellow moii. They are ready to accept the benefits of increased wages, and better working conditions that have been wrested from the employing class by the combined force of the Union, lmt hesitate to make their initial payment towards the upkeep of same. This applies to any Union. Any man starting iu another industry, is morally hound to contribute, at the outset, towards the Union that has protected that industry and prepared the conditions that he is about to work under. Considering the fact that, “Martian” has been in the mills for two or three months now, it is a wonder that his enquiring mind had not already sought knowledge from the rule-hooks of his work-mates, most of whom have, oT could procure rule-hooks for his perusal, instead of waiting till the Secretary happened along. 1 am. etc. “DEMOS.”