Cablegrams.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume I, Issue 6, 11 February 1890, Page 2

Cablegrams.

LABOUR AND CAPITAL.

(Per Press Association.)

London, February 7. The shippers, fearing a strike, are withholding goods from the control of the Dock Companies. The new London dock scheme has been abandoned. Monastery Wharf, at Wapping, has locked out the wharf labourers. The dockers have asked Mr Hayes to give them piecework at a price virtually covering mealtimes. If refused, the dockers will try and arrange on the old terms in order to gain time during which the Unions will be strengthened, with a view of renewing the struggle in the summer. Auckland, February 8. A travelling agent of the Knights of Labour, Mr W. Lyght, who arrived here a few days ago from America via Australia, has begun the work of organising the Auckland branch, which has been affiliated to the head Society. Mr Lyght delivered a public address last night, explaining the objects and aims of the Knights of Labour. The membership of the local branches has considerably increased during the past few days. The Knights of Labour have appointed a committee to wait upon the local shop-keepers who failed to agree to close early, and endeavour to gain their support for the movement.

London, February 7. Many additional docks and wharves are joining the Employers Union. In view of the apprehensions of another strike pressure is being applied to obtain delivery of the Australian wool sold at the current auctions.

The coal-owners of the United Kingdom propose to federate, and limit labour to eight hours per day. To counterbalance the restriction of hours the output will be decreased by 30000000 tons per annum, and the price increased 6 s per ton. Opinion in England is adverse to the German Emperor’s proposed labour reforms. Berlin, February 7. The Emperor’s labour decree : has caused a prodigious sensation throughout Germany. The press of all shades declares it will advance the well-being of his subjects, and prove an additional safeguard to the throne. The decree was issued on the Emperor’s own initiative. Rumours are about that Bismarck was opposed to it, but the idea of any difference between the Kaiser and his Chancellor meets with no credit.

The dockers are negotiating to ascertain whether the unions will support a general strike. The dockowners are preparing a scheme enabling them to contribute to the sick and benefit fund of the employes.