HOBSON’S BAY DISPUTE.

Taranaki Daily News, 29 April 1922, Page 2

HOBSON’S BAY DISPUTE.

FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. April 27. The trouble on the Commonwealth Line’s steamer Hobson’s Bay is regarded as an attempt by the seamen to impose a system of job control. A ballot taken by the Seamen’s Union decided that members should individually present themselves for engagement. It was also decided that the original crew of the steamer should not be -allowed to participate in the ballot or again rejoin her. Later seamen and firemen, sent by the union, presented themselves for engagement, but the management insisted on selecting its own crew and, the men selected by the union being rejected, only three signed on. A lively scene followed, but the company remained firm. It is now stated that the company has resolfed to advertise for a crew rather than submit to dictation by the union. An attempt was also made by the Stewards’ Association to prevent members of the Union who were engaged for the Hobson’s Bay from commencing work. These men,’ however, ignored the directions of the union officials and went aboard where they held meetings and officially notified the association that they were determined to stay aboard. Sydney, April 25. meeting of the Seamen’s Union carried a motion that the original crew of Hobson’s Bay should not sign on again, and adjourned till Wednesday, stating that it would pick a new crewin the meantime. The dispute has now reached a head, as the original crew resent the Union's action, which they characterise as Bolshevik, stating they will defy the union and sign on again. The crew of the Hobson’s Bay have been paid off and those belonging to the Australian union invited to sign on again. This offer was availed of by the stewards, but the seamen and firemen refused, stating it was not worth the risk, as if they had done so they would be blacklisted.