ASSURANCE GIVEN

Hokitika Guardian, 11 July 1932, Page 5

ASSURANCE GIVEN

USE OF POLICE

NOT FOR BREAKING .STRIKERS.

(Per Press Association — Copyright.)

WELLINGTON, July 10. An assurance that it is not the po-icy of tlie Government to use the police forcA. for strike breaking was given by. Hon. Mr Cob.be, when replying to questions that recently were; i/submitted by the Canterbury Labour Representation Committee. The Minister’s statement; was in reply to a letter from the Committee! drawing- attention to .remarks regarding the recent tramway strike in. Christchurch, which were reported to have been used by Superintendent Cummings at a luncheon of the. NapierRotary Club. 1 The Committee inquired whether it was ’the policy of the Government to use the police force and to enrol special police for the purpose of ) strike breaking, ... ' “My reply 'to your question ’i3 no,” said Mr Cobbe. “It is- not the policy and never has been the policy of the Government to use the police, for strike breaking, nnd. I'think yon are aware, no departure from -this rule was made during the recent tramway strike' In Christchurch. The duty of the police Is to maintain law - and or* dor impartially, to protect the lives and property of all citizens, and, to best of their power, preserve peace.”