DISCIPLINE SAPPED.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 237, 25 February 1913, Page 2

DISCIPLINE SAPPED.

IN THE MERCHANT SERVICE. By Telegraph—Press Association: Auckland, Monday. I'pon inquiry yesterday it was found that no official notification of any arrangement with the Australian marine officers in regard to the merchant service dispute had been received locally, though the opinion was expressed that it was quite likely that a move would be made to secure general co-operation. In speaking- to a Star reporter an officer said that the position was becoming more intolerable than ever. Nobodv was more keenly aware of.this state of affairs than those who were looking for positions ashore. Although shipping companies allowed firemen and sailors a great deal more latitude than formerly, officers were still expected to get tlie same amount of work done and to get the vessel away to time.

The shipowners' mott,o appeared to be ''Peace at any price." and in consequence if an officer had any difference with the men he could not count upon the support of his company. No one was move keenly aware of this state of affairs than the man in the forecastle, and he wa s quick to take advantage of the position. Under such circumstances it was well nigh impossible to maintain discipline and he felt that unless some determined step was taken by officers or shipowners there was serious trouble ahead for New Zealand shipping.