Huntly Loyalty.

Huntly Press and District Gazette, Volume 3, Issue 6, 7 August 1914, Page 2

Huntly Loyalty.

While the meeting of the Miners’ Union was in progress on Wednesday night the news that war had been declared against Germany by Great Britain was communicated to the chairman (Mr S. Dixon) who informed the meeting to that effect. Spontaneously all sprang to their feet, and sang “ God Save the Ki.ig ” with the greatest fervour and enthusiasm, the National A:: them being followed by rounds of ringing cheers. When the excitement had somewhat subsided, the chairman was authorised to send the following telegram to the Premier : —“ This meeting of the Taupiri Coal Mines Employees’ Union expresses its sincere appreciation of the stand taken by both parties in Parliament with regard to the present crisis which has involved the British Empire in war, and offers to the Government any assistance that may bo required from the members of the Uni >n.” Late last night Mr Dixon received the following reply from the Prime Minister: “I desire on behalf of the Government to thank yourself and the Taupiri Coal Miners Union of Workers for the loyal and patriotic sentiments expressed in the resolution contained in your telegram, and also the of£er of assistance. Should it be necessary for the Government to avail it>elf of the generous offer, the Defence authorities will communicate with you in due course New Zealand may be depended upon to do its duty by the Empire in this national crisis.” . • (Sgnd.) W. F. MASSEY.