CORRESPONDENCE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 1102, 29 May 1913, Page 3

CORRESPONDENCE.

(To the Editor.)

Sir. — l was much interested in reading leader in last issue of your paper of “How labour Hits Labour.” This is something that should make one think. Now, about a fortnight ago there was a paragraph in your paper re , some trouble at our wharf, where the unloading ot coal boats was hung up for some hours through the Waterside Workers demanding something that the mate, who is responsible for working the ship, knew was not fair or reasonable for the efficient working of his cargo; the result is this : that the owners of that line of boats affected by the Waterslders unwarranted interference that day, say “no” to any offers ot coal cargo to Foxton, while they can get freights tc other ports where they have no trouble. Once bit twice shy seems to be an old motto that applies in this case. The result is that these irresponsible and misguided men have not only succeeded in driving away the work that they profess to want, but through their action have made their fellow ryorkers in Foxton pay more for their fuel, as local coal merchants have to get their supplies by rail from Wellington, and they naturally pass the extra cost on to the consumer, and nine-tenths of the consumers of Foxton are workers. Then, there is another and more serious side to the question and that is the driving of the boats and thereby the trade away from our local port, and this is a phase of the question that affects not only every person in Foxton, but the surrounding districts and Palmerston N. as well. What has happened in this small local case is quite enough to make any thinking worker ask for more information as to the ultimate result, and who has got to suffer the most no matter how small or big, long or short the strike may be. The only man who does not seem to suffer | is the man who agitates and lives upon the fat salary drawn from the workers under the name of organiser. Is the worker better off to-day after paying more for his goods, etc., through various causes than he was formerly before the advent of these petty strifes ? As one who knows from bitter experience 1 say most emphatically no ! -—I am, etc., Arbitrations.

(To the Editor.) Sir,-—I noticed a paragraph in your paper in reference to the language used in a recent football match. I am one of the “has beens,” and now take delight in witnessing a game of toe-ball, but I object to the disgusting language used both by certain players and spectators during the progress of local matches. Such conduct would not be allowed by any other properly governed body in New Zealand. lam surprised that the referee, who has the power both over spectators and players in this connection, does not put a stop to it. Such language, to my mind, indicates the blackguard who brings the grand old game into disrepute. 1 hope the officials will exercise proper authority over local games, and make an example of some of the offenders. Thanking you in anticipation,—l am, etc., CtBAST Sport.