THE SYDNEY STRIKE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 395, 28 March 1908, Page 3

THE SYDNEY STRIKE.

Mm Abortive Conference. Sydney, March 25. The trouble between the coastal shipping companies and the Wharf labourers’ Union continues. The conference broke up tonight after a further lengthy sitting. . >-■ —Mr Hughes announced that the companies had rejected the terms submitted by the Unionists, and the struggle would continue. On behalf of the companies a statement was made that the only point they are fighting for is freedom of contract; that is not only in their interests, but the interests of the employers of labour througout Australia. Many rumours are current as to the probable development and extension of the strike. The position is considered critical, and both sides are reticent. During the day the Employers’ Federation held a meeting, and reaffirmed their intention to preserve the right of private contract with regard to the employment of free labour. ' * Sydney, March 26. The conference between the wharf labourers’ representatives and the employers split on the attitude taken up by the Newcastle Company, which asserted its right to employ npn-Uniou labour. The continuance of the strike will paralyse the dairying industry in the Northern rivers district.