THE RAILWAY TROUBLE.

Taranaki Daily News, 31 March 1920, Page 6

THE RAILWAY TROUBLE.

BALLOT NOW TAKING PLACE. WAITING FOR THE PREMIER. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, March 30. During the past few days there lias been no further development in regard to the dispute between the' Railway Union and the Government. The three organisations concerned are awaiting the promised interview with Mr. Massey and it is understood this will be arranged as soon as possible after the Easter holidays. Meantime the ballot is taking place amongst the A.S.R.S. and is returnable on April 17. It is understood the proposals have been submitted to the men in the following form: "Do you authorise the executive to accept the proposals as conr tained in Mr. Justice Stringer's report, or, as an alternative, decline to accept the increase offered and authorise the executive to call a strike in order to enforce our demands?"

A number of the men say they opposed both proposals and suggest that a third issue should have been added, as they think the way is still open to further negotiations. Meanwhile attention is drawn to the fact that the Railway Department will, on next pay day, include in each man's wages or salary the bonus recommended by Mr Justice Stringer, dating from January 1 last. It is stated that the younger and more militant members of the service have intimated their intention of refusing to accept the bonus, but whether they will carry out tteir threat when the extra pay is offered them, remains to be seeu.