The Strikes.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 5 November 1913, Page 2

The Strikes.

Serious occurrences have been re* ported in Wellington and other centres as the result of the strikes now pre. valent. The waterside workers took the law into their own hands, interfered' with and destroyed property, also intimidated other workers and inoffensive members of the community who object to the Federation methods. Large numbers of law-abiding inem-bei-3 of the cornmuuity have been sworn ia as speciaL constables to protect life and property throughout the North Island. Exciting scenes have occurred In Wellington, the Police being pelted c-ith road metal, and charging the crowd in retaliation. Over a thousand mounted constables are in the city, a considerable number of other specials have been sworn in, and it is under* stood the naval men are also ready to give a hand in quelling disturbances. In Auckland the position has become a grave one. but there have been few actual cases of disorder. Large numbers of citizens are rej.dy to work the wharves and act as constables if required. Amounted force of 520 mustered at Hamilton and came to Auckland yesterday. Other centres are also organising large contingents. . , Leading local settlers have organised during the past few days, and" if the situation makes it- necessary a good mounted foroo of local and district residents will go to Auckland to protect tanning ai.d dairying interests. The local forces are to be under Major JolJey, o f Silverdale, and it is expected that about 200 mounted mea will be available by Friday if required The Premier (Hon W. K. Massed and bir Joseph Ward (opposition leader) have used their best efforts to bring a' bout a settlement between the workers and employers, but unsuccessfully.. Yesterday it was announced that no agreement had been arrived at p.nd that the Conference had been atyandoned. • . The public are warned aeain'it assembling with the crowds duriio- the strike. ° Further disorderly and riotous scenes are ropovtod from Wellington, where most oi the-strike outrages have'occurred. A numW of people have been injured by various missiles and the use of revolvers. Seven hotels Have been temporarily closed owing to disturbances.