ECHO OF THE STRIKE

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2409, 15 March 1915, Page 8

ECHO OF THE STRIKE

— « EXPENSE OF MOBILISING SPECIALS. (By Telegraph.—Pre™ Association.! Hamilton, March 13. Considerable expense was involved in the mobilisation of the Waikato special constables for service on the waterfront at Auckland during the strike, and a large number of accounts involving a big sum yet remain unpaid. These have been- rendered to the Hamilton branch of the Farmers' Union, who have no funds, and in any case,' would refuse to pay. A deadlock has arisen, and the'creditors in the meantime remain unpaid. The position was discussed by the local branch of the Farmers' Union yesterday, when the attitude of the Auckland Provincial Council in denying liability or responsibility for the riiobilisation was strongly condemned. Tho secretary (Mr Gribble) stated.that instructions from the Auckland branch authorised him to spare no expense, as there was plenty of money in Auckland for the purpose. It was mentioned that several creditors threatened to proceed for the recovery of their;money, in which case the local branch decided to sue the Auckland branch. Meantime a committee was set up to wait upon the Provincial Executive. It was also mentioned' that a large number of horses lent for the use of the specials had been lost, and the owners 'are claiming replacement from the branch. Mr. Young, M.P., and the secretary interviewed the Prime Minister on the subject. ■ Mr. Massey refused to open the matter up personally, but recommended the people concerned to petition to the House, whon the whole matter would be gone into.