AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXI, Issue 96, 6 December 1911, Page 8

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Sydney, December 5. Mr Justice Higgins lias commenced the hearing of the Merchant Service Guild- case, claiming better conditions and wages for masters and officers of inter-State steamers. Several companies have already signed an agreement, and their names were struck out.

Giving evidence at the Daylight Saving Enquiry, the secretary of the Labour Council said that though it would he an advantage from a Jivgionic point of view, as the workers would have a chance of more open air and recreation and extra daylight, it would be a factor in making for more overtime work. The “Herald” takes Mr. McGowan to task for his spineless reply to the deputation against boxing contests, it adds: Boxing contests conducted to a knock-out on gentlemanly linos is not a draw. A more gladiatorial spectacle is more likely to draw, we note, among those who try to force refined morality by legislation, but the limit is reached when so-called sport becomes a foul ulcer of infection to any unable to protect themselves. The “Herald,” commenting on the Xew Hebrides situation, says the present arrangement between Britain and Eranco cannot expect,” it says, “the Mother Country to negotiate with the idea that she is to hear all the burden of a possible exchange of territory or monetary compensation. In the event of a cash settlement any statesmanlike person handling the thorny question will appeal to the Commonwealth, and a reasonable claim for substantial financial help will he accept’d and endorsed without haggling or regret. • Further heavy rainfall is wide-

spread. The outlook is immensely benefited by the recent general rains. The Sydney Hospital Centennary Cycling Race, fifty pounds, half mile, scratch, resulted:—Grenchi 1, McNamara 2, Mutton 3. Won by inches, lime, imin 9 2-ssec.

Hoskins has discharged seventy men engaged in the extension works and other branches of the Lithgow ironworks. It is rumoured that the blast furnaces will shortly he closed. It is expected that the firm will proceed against the Government for cancellation of contracts. In the Assembly, the Income Tax debate was closured and the second Hading carried by 33 to 21. Melbourne, December 5. In the House a Bill to place Civil servants under the Federal Arbitration Act was read a second time. The debate disclosed that several members of the Labour Party oppose the measure for various reasons. Eighty-four domestic servants arrived here and all were engaged before they left the vessel. Adelaide, December 5. Lambing returns are below the average, owing to the failure of early rains. Heavy rains is falling throughout the agricultural areas, and it is feared will damage the hay crops.