RATINGS COMPLAIN

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22318, 1 May 1947, Page 6

RATINGS COMPLAIN

“UNFAIR METHODS” TELEGRAMS TO HOMES (P.A.) AUCKLAND, April 30. Allegations mat unmir metnods were oeing used in an attempt lo get tnern to return lo the ship were made this morning oy ratings concerned in tne cruisei Beiiona dispute. l’he men state tt.at telegrams were sent yesterday to all the next-of-kin ol loose involved mat a son or nusoand was absent without leave. "This is an underhand method,” said a spokesman lor the ratings. "By playing on the emotions ot parents uie authorities believe we can be forced back to the ship ” •Two men are known to have returned following pressure from next-of-kin. The men also allege that telephone calls are being tapped and teiegrams opened without autnority. It was agreed mat it should be permissable for telegrams to be opened if a man were absent from his ship, but thev considered it an unwarranted interference if tile man were aboard. "Although we are in the minority, we are taking the biggest step in our lives for the benefit of those who remain in the service,” the ratings stated. Filty ratings are now absent without leave, four others having returned. The representations from the men absent without leave from H.M.S. Bel lona are not being considered by the Naval Board, but those made by mem bers of the ship’s complement who are continuing their normal duties are being examined by the board. These facts were stated to-day by the Minister of Defence, Mr F. Jones, in correcting an impression that the 10 demands made by the absentees were under consideration. “The only representations being con sidered by the Naval Board are those which have been made bv the men serving on board the Bellona through the proper service channels," Mr Jones said "No consideration is or will be given to the representations being made by the men who have failed to. return to their duty."