THE SHIPPING CRISIS.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 May 1919, Page 4

THE SHIPPING CRISIS.

WHARF LABORERS THREATEN TO STRIKE. Melbourne, May 20. Practically the whole of the Melbourne shipping is now idle. The most serious development threatening 1b a strike of wharf laborers. A conference of the I latter and the seamen is discussing a proposal for a temporary alliance of the two bodies to further their respective claims. It is understood that the Seamen's Union is not financially strong, (ind that the South Australian members (ire determined not to be made to pay tor a mistake they condemned from the outset. A South Australian representative is at present in Melbourne taking action to protect the funds of hia branch from any levy that may be attempted. It is stated that an, application for a High Court injunction is contemplated. DEMAND FOR ARBITRATION. Adelaide, May 20. The Seamen's Union carried a motion deprecating the action of the Executive Council in calling a strike, and expressing the opinion that all disputes should be referred to arbitration.—Aus.-N.Z_ Cable Assn. Sydney, May 20. The seamen called a stop-work meeting to-day to discuss their strike attitude, (SLIGHT DISTURBANCES. Received May 20, 51.20 p.m. Melbourne,. M*y 20ft There are no further developments in connection with the shipping dispute. Slight disturbances occurred between the unionists and non-unionists. The police intervened and (prevented further trouble. Adelaide, May 20. The seamen's meeting reaffirmed its decision not to strike, but tO' refer the dispute to arbitration.