LABOR DISPUTES.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2064, 26 June 1890, Page 1

LABOR DISPUTES.

London, June 23. The metropolitan firemen demand an increase of pay, shorter hours, and the establishment of a pension system. By order of Sir Edward Bradford, who has succeeded Mr Munro as Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, the delegates appointed by the police to advocate their interests were prevented from meeting at Bow Street, and sentries placed at every door. One of the inspectors ordered the station reserves to compel the delegates to quit the footway, but they refused and were loudly cheered by their comrades. Subsequently the police assembled at Adelphi Terrace (West Centre) when a petition to be presented to Mr H. Matthews, the Home Secretary, was drawn up, requesting him to meet the delegates at Bow Street on Monday. The men are enraged at the action of the Commissioner, and have resolved on a general strike if any of the delegates are punished. A sergeant and constables have been arrested for addressing another meeting ef the police, and men belonging to the station have refused duty until they are released. Seventy thousand coal miners at Southport held a demonstration to-day in favour of the eight hours system, and protesting against the levying of royalties. Stdnet, June 24. The Employers’ Committee have completed arrangements for following on the course determined on at meeting last week. Sloetmonxh, June 24. The following is a copy of a telegram sent by Mr Kennedy, managing director of the Grey Valley Coal Company, to Mr Bishop, the mine manager of the company :—“ Late changes in arrangements with miners making weekly loss so serious, it is impossible to continue it. Consult Miners’ Association when they could meet me to discuss the position. Will come down immediately. Ask association to consider matter in all its bearings, as a collapse would be ruinous to all concerned, the district included. Am willing to work mines on the co-operative principle, or in any way they wish, so that the basis of working will be equitable.”