AUSTRALIAN NEWS

Grey River Argus, 20 May 1943, Page 2

AUSTRALIAN NEWS

FQUR SOLDIERS DROWNED. SYDNEY, May 19. Struck by a huge wave, four Australian soldiers, wno weie standing un the rocks at a point on the south coast on Sunday, were swept out to sea and drowned. More than 30 servicemen were standing on the Jocks when the wave struck with a thunderous roar, engulfing the men. Phe four lost were carried out so rapidly that nothing could be done to save them. Several others were badly cut and bruised by the buffeting they received.

CONTROL OF RENTS,

CANBERRA, May 19

The Federal Government proposes to appoint a Commonwealth Rents Controller to have charge of rents generally, and particularly to stamp out the extortionate charges tor single rooms. A deputy Rent Controller will be appointed in each State.

PUNISHMENT OF STRIKERS. CANBERRA, Mav 19. . Strikers or employer? responsible for stoppages in Australian industry will have their exemptions as protected workers removed and will be called up by the military or manpower authorities. This decision has been made by the full Cabinet, and the Government will immediately tane the necessary power under the National Security Act. Importance is attached to the fact that Mr. Curtin himself has assumed responsibility for administering the regulations. Ministers were told that wharf stoppages were seriously impairing the efficient organisation ~ of shipping to New Guinea and other war theatres, and the coal troubles were disrupting transport and essential services. Ministers stated later that there would be wholesale call-up of strikers if necessary. Political corresnondents suggest the rising public indignation at the continued industrial trouble has assisted to influence the Cabinet decision. Tne Government feared a possible loss of sunnort at the next elections. The next session of the Federal Parliament will commence on June 21.