FLAX WORKERS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 1712, 15 May 1917, Page 3

FLAX WORKERS.

PROPOSED AMALGAMATION WITH THE AtP.A. Questioned by a Wellington Times reporter on the result of his recent, visit to the Manawatu district, Mr C. Grayndlor, secretary of .the Agricultural and Pastoral W others Union, said that he had good reasons to be satisfied with his mission. As regards the proposal that the flaxmillers of that district should link up with the A.P.U., Mr GraynIder said this would be easily accomplished, as the workers were readily accepting.the proposals for greater organisation. Ballots are being taken at the various nulls, where meldings are being held, hut it will take about nine more days to visit the whole of (he mills in the distriel. The result' of the ballots will then be declared, and there is little doubt (bat Hie ranks of Hie A.P.U. will be strengthened by about 1,000 industrial unionists. Asked as fo how Hie record ballot for recruits had affected Hie industry, Mr Grayndler said that the Military Sendee Act was having a vital effect on Hie Jlaxmilling industry. He went on to. say that when Cabinet met 1 In* Government no doubt would lake into consideralion Hie fact that Hie flax industry was essential at the present time, and in addition returning a vast amount of revenue. For the reason that (he Jlax product was used by Hie imperial Government to a large extent, lie contended that the industry should be placed under the same category as the coal, wool and meal; industries. Mr Grayndler lias returned to this district to continue his addresses to the tlax workers.