SHEARERS' AND LABORERS' UNION.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2540, 10 August 1893, Page 2

SHEARERS' AND LABORERS' UNION.

TO THE EDITOR.

Sir, —Allow me space to contradict some of the made by Mr Hammond. He said Mr Boreham had nothing to do with the Unions, but, if so, how is it that he is vice-chairman of the Timaru branch? He said there was no rise in the price of threshing. Did he read the case of Douglas v. Mathews, heard in Terauka and reported in your own paper ? Ho said I would uot employ a .Union man. The last seven men I employed were Union men, and the workmen who have worked for me know different. I am glad to know that Mr Hammond is modifying his ideas, and is willing to come to an understanding with farmers. Perhaps it might be as well for him. Only three years ago the Australians Unions struck for the principle of trades unionism, and they were beaten. Now their wages are being reduced by over 25 per cent., and they have to put up with it. If they had not struck three years ago they would be in a better position to fight for their wages now. It would be as well for Mr Hammond to remember this, and not to get too bumptious all at once. As regards Mr Hammond's threats about my next lease, all I have to say is, let him do his best. I am quite independent of him. As regards my mates sending me to Wellington, I am sure they have no intention of doing so, but if the truth were known I believe that is exactly what Mr Hammond is aiming at. Of course, if he gets in he is such a clever man that he will soon bo Premier, and he will get billets for his friends who live at Fairfield and the Waihi Flat. But Mr Hammond would keep men working ou the rainy days. What a kind-hearted boss Mr Hammond would be ! There is no inside work to do on farms, and I do not believe in keeping men working out in the rain; but Mr Hammond would do it, and of course he is the working man's friend.— I am, etc., E. Burke.