Wool Loaded In Refrigerator Space

Northern Advocate, 25 October 1947, Page 8

Wool Loaded In Refrigerator Space

WELLINGTON. Sat. (P.A.)—Waterside workers loading wool yesterday into the refrigerator space of the Athenic. which is due to leave for England this afternoon, were unhappy over the position in view of yesterday's announcement that Britain's rations were to be further cut. but made no complaint to their union officials, it is stated. The secretary of the New Zealand Waterside Workers’ Union (Mr Hill) stated today that his union had received no complaints, but he invited a newspaper representative to accompany him to the ship. Waterside workers on the job stated that No. 5 hold refrigerated space had been loaded with wool, and unrefrigerated space normally used for wool transport on top of it was loaded with passengers’ baggage and other cargo. “We would have been with you if you had held her up,” said a member of the crew to Mr Hill, confirming that wool had been stowed in refrigerated space. A SAD COMMENTARY This is a sad commentary on the efficacy of the Aid to Britain campaign." said Mr Hill, subsequently. “This happens on the day after the British toiler hears that things are to be tougher still for him.” Mr Hill added that it came straight after the Rangitata had sailed with 7000 ft of cargo space available for loading food parcels.