STRIKE SPREADS

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20950, 1 November 1939, Page 6

STRIKE SPREADS

COAL MINERS OUT GLEN AFTON MEN STOP ANOTHER 150 AFFECTED The decision to stop work until a better road is provided, which was made by the miners at the McDonald Mine yesterday, spread to Glen Afton this morning when the Glen Afton miners decided to stop work in sympathy with the other men. This morning’s decision affects another 150 men. The McDonald miners have not yet returned to work.

“It appears from past experience that the only way we can get recognition is by ceasing work,” said Mr J. Lister, the mine delegate, when speaking on behalf of the men. “We have applied repeatedly to the Government and to the mine management to repair the road, but nothing has been done. The men are now determined not to start work until we get a guarantee that the road will be fixed at once.” The superintendent of the colliery, Mr Peter Hunter, stated that the condition of the road was not the concern of the company, but of the Public Works Department. Reply From Minister A telegram from the Minister of Mines, the Hon. P. C. Webb, to-day, stating that he is investigating the matter. A reply from the national mine secretary, Mr A. McLagan, is also expected to-day. Some of the men expect that the Minister of Public Works, the Hon. R. Semple, will send a message.