GIRLS WHO WON’T.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 220, 19 May 1917, Page 7

GIRLS WHO WON’T.

REVOLT AGAINST “C.E.” SHELL FILLING. Quite a rare case engaged the London Munitions Tribunal when seven girl munition workers were charged with refusing to obey a lawful order —namely, to do “C.E.” work. Previously employed on T.N.T. shell filling, the girls objected to “C.E.” work, because one of the consequences might be discolouration. Some also said they were unfit, but it was explained that they were Class A girls, passed as fit for T.N.T. and C.E. work. Four of them left the factory, and have not returned.

“You were aware that it is very urgent?” said Mr J. G. Talbot, the chairman, to the' girls. “Yes,” replied one of them.

Mr, Talbot; We know it is badly wanted for our men at the front. Still, you are not willing to work? “No sir,” replied the girl, and she added that she was willing to go on T.N.T. filling. Another girl said they thought they ought to have masks. But the works manager, said the doctors argued against respirators, gloves, or veils for C.E. work, because they increased the liability to dermatitis. In fining the girls 15s each, the chairman said: “The work is very important, although the circumstances are disagreeable. I should have thought all would be anxious to do what they can, at some discomfort and inconvenience to themselves, to supply this explosive which is so much wanted for our soldiers.” The Clerk: Do you want time to

pay? “We won’t pay.” shouted the girls in chorus. “We refuse to pay. We are not labour conscripts; we are volunteers.”