THE SHIPPING DISPUTE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLII, Issue 10107, 15 October 1917, Page 5

THE SHIPPING DISPUTE.

CASE BEFORE ARBITRATION COURT. (Pbb Press Association.! WELLINGTON, Oct. 15. An application by the Inspector of Awards for an interpreation of certain clauses in dispute in the existing agreement between coastal shipowners and seamen came before tbe Arbitration Court to-day. The Seamen’s Union was not represented. Mr Justice Stringer said it was to bo regretted that the union was not present to assist the Court in interpreting tho agreement. Air T. S. Weston, for the shipowners, suggested a short adjournment in order to give tho union a final chance of being represented, which it might do on a wordy warning or advice from the Court. Mr Justice Stringer, after consultation with his colleagues, said: ‘‘lt appears that the union has had ample notice to attend, and I don’t really think there should be any adjournment. I cannot pretend not to know what is going on. I see by the papers that tho union says it wil lhavo nothing’ to do with the Arbitration Court. I do m c think wo should have to go and petition the union to come here. I think the case should go onJ’ Mr Weston said tho Court, as a commission under Regulation 2 of the Trade and Committee Act was being asked to decide if where the manning scale of the Shipping and Seamen Act allows small vessels to carry less than six able seamen, it is essential to safety to such vessels that two deck hands should ho employed on deck at the same time, and in addition to the officer in charge. Mr Justice Stringer: That is a most important point. Mr Weston then proceeded to open the case.