“AN OMINOUS ECHO”

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28822, 17 February 1959, Page 14

“AN OMINOUS ECHO”

Mr Holyoake’s Comment (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, February 16. “The ugly situation which in recent weeks has been developing on the industrial front gives, rise to deep concern,” said the Leader of the Opposition (Mr Hblyohke) today. “What we are witnessing at present is an ominous echo of the past when, during the former Labour regime, irresponsible leaders of upidns'bssociated with some of our key industries, heedless of the long-tern) welfare of their members, precipitated strikes and go-slows on an unprecedented scale. “The industrial wreckers, knowing full well that a weak and vacillating government would merely threaten but never take action to enforce the Jaw* held the country .to ransom.

“As in the case of this waterfront dispute, the cohvehiende of; the public was considered not ih the slightest? and losses suffered by fellow workers in other fields, and by' industry generally, Were apparently regarded as minor issues,’ if, indeed, such factors were considered at all. Honest, hard-working men, forced to obey their leaders’ orders, Incurred heavy losses of income. The Labour Government, thoughposing as their friend, gave them no assistance whatever.

“Is the old familiar pattern to recur?” Mr Holyoake asked. “The inept attitude of the Labour Government in connexion with the strike threatened by the dairy factory workers was an open invitation to others to take similar action. In the entire absence of any Government steps being taken In the current waterfront dispute, it seems that a further deterioration is inevitable, Unless indeed/ public opinion can stir the Government into life. “The old familiar programme is being followed and a dangerous situation is developing. A firm stand must be taken now. Last Saturday, the Prime Minister (Mr Nash) said that the Cabinet would be discussing the question today. The public are entitled to demand that, arising out of the Cabinet’s the Government will issue a declaration of policy, that all parties to industrial disputes must obey the law. “This was and is the settled policy of the National administration and party. “The Government can no longer close its eyes to what is happening, and in the Interests of the country and all workers, a clear and unequivocal policy statement is urgently required."