INDUSTRIAL CONFERENCE

Hokitika Guardian, 14 January 1928, Page 3

INDUSTRIAL CONFERENCE

(Australian & N.Z. Cable Association

LONDON, Jan. 12. Sir Alfred Mond continued: Also the effect of taxation methods ensure the (Workers’ 'interest in industrial prosperty, apart from wages. With the creation of a Standing Committee for periodical consultation in industrial matters, such investigation would be prolonged The problems, though complex, did not represent insuperable difficulties. They could not expect to create a new heaven on earth. If they ensured freedom from industrial disand common Sense, humane (treatment of problems, they would treatment of problems, they would place Britain, which was always the leader in such matters, in the lorefront.

Sir Alfred Mond added”that the employers had formed a Committee to facilitate work, with himself as Chairman, .'including Lords Londonderry, Ashfield Weir; also Air Vernon Willey. Mr Ben Turner, replying, pointed out that neither side were able to accept the proposals, but the Trade Union Congress claimed a certain moral authority, and it could convene National Congress, to which the proposals could he submitted. The T.U.G. would appoint a Committee to meet the employers. A general discussion followed, after which the Conference adjourned. An unofficial report states that both sides arc certain that beneficial results will lie the outcome of the proceedings, which were cliarcterised by frankness and goodwill and harmony.

, Mr Cook struck the only jarring ■** in an impassioned speech, sliout- ' jfig, and thumping the table. The Conference listened quietly, and ignored the outburst, except from one

employer. Air Cook clime out from the Conference shouting “The whole thing is an absolute larce! I declared that cooperation and goodwill arc impossible while the workers are victimised.” Mr City in deprecates separated statements regarding the Conference, and denies Cook’s allegations that Trade Unionists have disgracefully attacked him.