SHIPPING DISPUTES

Hokitika Guardian, 4 March 1926, Page 3

SHIPPING DISPUTES

AUSTRALIAN COASTAL TROUBLE. [Australia & N.Z. Cab.a Association.] SYDNEY, March 3. A largely attended meeting of the Waterside Workers’ Federation decided not to handle the cargo on the coastal vessels that are manned by the volunteer crews. The coastal companies will now be forced to engage volunteer wharf labour. In the meantime, ships confine to sail manned by volunteer crews. THE WAITOAK) INCIDENT. AUCKLAND, Alarch 3. Thirteen members of the stokehold crew of the steamer Waitomo who refused to take the vessel to sea last •Saturday, because of their object ion to the cook, appeared at the Police Court to-dnv, when they denied combining to disobey lawful commands, or, alternately, neglecting their duty. Counsel for the prosecution said the .ship's complement was forty-two. The rest were satisfied with the cooking, and "ere ready to go to sea. It seemed to him like the rule of the minority . Counsel for the defence said it was obvious that the men had legitimate complaint. They had several objections to the cook and his cooking. The main one was that the meat had been tainted since the ship was recommissioned six weeks ago. The galley "as extremely dirty. After evidence was heard, the Alagistratc said the men’s action should have been the last thing to do. They had proper means ol settling the dispute. Each would lie lined live pounds, and allowed turt\eight hours to pay.