FURTHER UNREST

Hokitika Guardian, 8 January 1930, Page 6

FURTHER UNREST

FEAR OF WATERFRONT TROUBLE. (Australian Press Association). (Received this day at 10 a.m.' SYDNEY, Jan. 8. The “Herald” says the Federal Alinistry is gravely concerned with the growing unrest on the waterfront caused by the demand of the watersiders for the immediate removal of nonunionists from every wharf throughout the Commonwealth. It is revealed that the AssistantAlinister of Industry, Air Beasley, recently held a number of secret conferences with waterside workers in Ale! biourne. Fears are held in Federal circles that a crisis in the maritime industry is threatened, and Cabinet will give special attention to the position at a meeting next week.

COALMINERS’ DECISION. ,SYDNEY, Jan. 8. The Central Council of the Miners’ Federation definitely endorsed the recommendation from the northern miners that all safety men he withdrawn from the mines closed by the Associated Coal Owners. Officials of the Engine Drivers’ Union, however, received definite instructions that safety men must remain at work. Three South Coast mines, Corrival, Scarborough and Cbalcliff, have decided in favour of an all-out policy, but other lodges voted solidly against it. Four hundred returned soldiers at West Maitland endorsed a proposal to establish a Labour Defence Corps, and resolved to pledge themselves to fight strenuously in any way the Miners’ Federation may direct. The “Herald’s” Canberra correspondent says that in all probability a referendum on the question of amending the constitution to give increased industrial powers to the Commonwealth will he held in July, before the Prime Minister, Mr Seullin, departs,to attend the Imperial Conference in London. It is understood the necessary legislation will be introduced immediately Parliament resumes in March.