SHIP UNLOADED

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22586, 15 March 1948, Page 2

SHIP UNLOADED

RARATONGA DISPUTE PICKETS OBEY POLICE WELLINGTON, March 13. The Union Steam Ship Company’s motor-ship Wairata, which arrived at Rarotonga from New Zealand last Tuesday, was expected to leave today, stated the Prime Minister, Mr. P. Fraser. He said he was glad to be able to report that the Wairata was being discharged expeditiously and that muchneeded supplies were being delivered promptly in Rarotonga. “The action of the Government In sending a party of police has thus had the anticipated effect,” said Mr. Fraser. “The presence of the police has prevented a repetition of last week’s incident when labour was prevented from working a ship by means of a picket line. I want to thank the police for the way in which they have dealt with a situation calling for both tact and firmness.” The Prime Minister said that members of the Cook Islands Progressive Association again refused engagement in unloading the Wairata although they were included among the workers selected. A picket line was established but it proved obedient to police direction and the discharge of the Wairata had gone on without interference.