LABOUR MEETING.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 9562, 7 August 1909, Page 5

LABOUR MEETING.

LEAGUE FORMED IN MASTERTON. The wet weather militated against a large attendance at the meeting called last evening of those interested in the formation of a branch of the New Zealand Labour Federation in Masterton. The chair was occupied by Mr A. Gardner, who stated the object of calling the meeting, which was that the various Trades and Labour Councils in tne Dominion v/en endeavouring to thoroughly organise and unite labour. Mr A. W. Hogg, M.P., attended, and at the request of the meeting gave a short address. He prefaced his remarks by referring to the great enthusiasm shown in the various centres at which he had delivered addresses. The public was awakening to the necessity of a proper labour organisation, and there was no more opportune time for it than the present. The movement in Auckland was being conducted on broad lines, and all classes were welcomed into the ranks. If they wished to succeed they must establidh one or two sound planks in their platform, and hold consistently to them, and not get involved in side issue?. Probably two of the most important issues were land and finance. He expressed the hope that he would like to see the people become an influence in the country, and the lands settled in the right manner. If the wurkers of the Dominion kept in view the control of the land and State currency, and dealt with them in the right way, there would be no need to fear depression. It was a curious circumstance that while many people were conversant with the land question, they were quite ignorant of that of finance. He alluded to the readiness with which bankers and financiers advanced money in time of prosperity, but, he.said, when the turn came these men began to draw in their nets, and the result was that the country was now in a terrible condition, while the bankers and financiers lived on the fat of the lan'', although he would not like to say they were actuated by malignant motives. He concluded by impressing upon them once more the necessity of an efficient organisation.

The chairman then moved "That in the opinion vf this meeting a utrong effort should be made to secure control of political machinery, and that ths time is opportune to create a Labour party in Parliament, pledged to be controlled by a Labour organisation, which we hope will be brought into existence." Mr P. Smith seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. On the motion of Mr Smith, seconded by the chairman, it was decided that a Labour League be formed in Masterton.

Mr Gardner wag then elected President of the League, pro tern, and those present were appointed an executive committee, with power to add to their number.

Mr S. O'Regan was appointed secretary pro tem. '

It was decided that the committee meet again next Thursday evening. ==