WEST COAST MINERS.

Gisborne Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 4827, 26 March 1918, Page 4

WEST COAST MINERS.

APPEAL BY THE PREMIER. Press Association Telegram. WELLINGTON, March 25. The following telegram relating t-o strikes in the West "Coast- coal mines has been sent to the local representatives of the Labor Department on the scene of troubles by the head of the Department here: ‘"‘l am directed by the Prime Minister to inform officers of coal miners’ unions whose members are on strike as follows: The action of coal miners who stopped work at certain mines has already greatly interfered with the industries of the Dominion, and with essential duties of the New Zealand Government. Such action by men working under awards is unlawful under the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act, and 'it- is also a serious offence against tbe War Regulations. The Prime Minister trusts the men will return to work at once. It not, he regrets that- it- will be tbe imperative duty of the Government to direct proceedings to he taken without further delay under the War Regulations. Please inform the principal officers of the unions accord ugly at once.'’ THE OTIRA DISPUTE. Press Association Telegram. WELLINGTON, March 25. Sir William Fraser received a tele■gram to-day from the secretary of the union at Otira asking would he agree to submit the matter in dispute to the Conciliation Commissioner. a The Minister replied:—“Can’t accept request- as regarding- referring the point at issue to Mr. Hagger, Conciliation Commissioner, or to anyone else. Decision of the Minister for Public Works as to who may or may not be emploved must be final.”