THE RECENT RUBRIC MEETING.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 387, 10 March 1908, Page 2

THE RECENT RUBRIC MEETING.

[to the editor.] Sir, —I feel that the majority of those present at the meeting of the “ flax-hands ” the other evening* were disappointed at the result, or rather, the lack of any result coming from Mr Ross’ effort to show the seriousness of the situation. Personally, I think if those who persistently shouted “shut the mills down,’’ were to stop and think for one moment what it really means to the district, and to the town of Foxton itself, as well as to the individual, they would be more ready to come to some amicable agreement, instead of wanting to “shut down.” Firstly, there are at least half of the num-, ber of hands employed, who have never done any other kind of work, and what is equally important, are absolutely unfitted for any other kind of work than “milling.” Secondly, there is at present a depression in trade generally in the town, and a premature closing would mean a terrible blow to the tradespeople generally, as well as to the consumer. Thirdly, The winter is approaching, which necessitates the closing of the mills, and it is this time betore the winter, that one “puts by” to tide over that season. An early closing means a harder and more severe winter than usual.—Surely, a great effort ought to be made in trying to meet this special case. Could not, say, the men suggest to the employers that they work nine hours a day instead of eight, for the same money, or could it not possibly be met by taking id an hour less, which means little to the individual, but much to the whole of the employers. There, is much truth in the old saying, “ Half a loaf is better than none,” but if the workers do not come to, some compromise, it appears fairly evident that we shall have a number in Foxton and the surrounding district, saying, “ What is the use of half a Joat, if we have not the money to pay for it. ’ ’ Trusting this will be sufficiently interesting for a space in your columns, sir.—l am, etc., Ofe-Sider. Avenue Road.