NAVAL CONGRESS.

Hokitika Guardian, 8 September 1925, Page 3

NAVAL CONGRESS.

[Australia A N.Z. Cable Association.] LONDON Sept. 7. Proposals for a gigantic Labour Alliance. coupled with the shadows threatening the beloved relation-hip of several big industries, promise to provide a momentous session ol the Trade Union Congress, which has opened at Scnrborugh. Mr Swales in hi- presidential address. referred to the increasing seriousness of the e onoinii' and social conditions during the past year. He dwelt on the soundness with which the trade union movement had emerged from a period of unparalleled crisis since 1920. He urged the employers, who think the organised worker can he still further driven hack, to take warning therefrom. Air Swales declared the demonstration solidarity ol the trade union move in connection with tho miners struggle had given hope Lo the whole movement. lit* also drew attention to the trend of amalgamation, which was shown by the fact that there had been a fifteen per cent, reduction in the number of separate unions in five

Air Swales demanded the extension of trade with Russia, and expressed sympathy with the workers’ struggle in India and China. He regretted an international front had not yet In cn secured though the differences with Amsterdam and .Moscow were small. Air Swales concluded hy declaring that a new phase of the development which would he entered upon i.cxt throughout the world would probably la the la t .stage of the revolt. He ap|>eiiled to the workeix to solidity their movements and I c prepared with machinery and men lor the linal .snuggle to destroy wages. Mr Swales assured the political Labour Party of the full co-operation of the industrial movement.

Subsequently, Mr Fred Briunlcy, Secretary of the Congress, mentioned consultations were in progress with the Labour Party with a view to securing now general headquarters lot the whole movement.

Mr Brantley denied the rumours ol a split, between the political and industrial sections.

Air Cramp (Railw aymen’s representative) moved an amendment, opposing the General Council's | n.pnsnl to establish general headquarters.

Mr Thomas, "ho resented past attacks on the Labour Government, supported Mr Cramp, but Mr Cramp withdrew his amendment, alter Mr Rraniley had given an assurance that if the proposal were adopted the Council would not proceed with the scheme until after the next conference. The proposal was adopted and the Congress adjourned.