WILD SCENES AT WEMBLEY.

Manawatu Times, Volume XLVIII, Issue 3599, 3 April 1924, Page 5

WILD SCENES AT WEMBLEY.

12,000 STRIKERS OUT MAY AFFECT EXHIBITION OPENING. IBy Electric Cable —Copyright [Aust. and N.Z. Cable Association.] (Received Wednesday, 7.5 p.m.) LONDON, April 1. There were exciting scenes at Wembley when thousands of strikers en masso visited all the sections of the Empire Exhibition, intimidating the ’oyal workers. When suasion failed, the mob was heeded by a lead ;r carrying a megaphone and shout ug orders to down tools. In some instances bricks and other missiles were thrown and occasionally tools were snatched from the workmen, Tho strikers tramped down the new lawns and gardens and smashed railings. r It is estimated that twelve thousand are idle. Union officials did not participate in the proceedings. It is believed that in consequence of the contempt shown by the organisers on Monday that the strikers will demand tho Union's recognition of tho resignation of tire union officials. The contractors fear that the inevit. able cessation, even if of the briefest will mean the postponement of the opening of the exhibition. They have asked the Ministry of Labour to intervene. STRIKE TERRORISM CONDEMNED. (Received Wednesday, 9.50 p.m) LONDON, April 1. The newspapers unanimously condemn the strike terrorism at Wembley and demand Government protection for the loyal workers. The exhibition authorities hope many of the builders will return to work of Wednesday, when police protection will be assured. The trouble is partly due to the Builders’ Trade Union refusing to allow the contractors at Wembley unlimited overtime. As a result, the earnings of many of their members were reduced by 30/- to 40/- per week. This caused anger among the builders who instead of complaining to the Union, have vented their displeasure on the Exhibition authorities. All 'the employees at Wembley are paid trade union rates, plus a shilling per day. Sir P. Sassoon, in moving the adjournment of the Commons, condemned the attitude of the Government during the recent strikes. Mr Shaw, Labour Minister, protested against Wembley being made the opportunity for a political attack.