Compulsory Unionism

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30065, 25 February 1963, Page 7

Compulsory Unionism

Sir.—l have read with deep interest your correspondent’s letter, Mr Ralph S. Wheeler, in today’s issue of “The Press.” While not agreeing with Mr Wheeler’s contention that “to be efficient and effective, all trades unionism should be compulsory,” I congratulate him on his excellent remarks following. Evidently he is very conversant with the industrial activities of the earlier years. Well could modern trade union leaders emulate the earlier years. Wonderful achievements were obtained, not by compulsory unionism, but by unselfishness, sincerity of purpose, and an honest and clear conscience. Compulsion of any description does not breed it or encourage it.— Yours, etc., HERBERT. E. BARNSLEY. February 22, 1963.

Sir,—Mr Wheeler ignores Mr Walsh’s somersault. Why? It was and still is compulsory to join. I do not believe in compulsory unionism, unless on an unfettered vote of all the members of such union conducted by an independent body. Furthermore, all unions should be made to produce a public balance sheet. In my opinion this would be a sheet-anchor for the member who never sees a union ' official or anything pertaining to union affairs There is today too much of “You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.”—Yours, etc.

BY THE WAYSIDE. February 22, 1963.