TRADES AND LABOUR COUNCIL

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 13084, 25 January 1906, Page 6

TRADES AND LABOUR COUNCIL

There was a fair attendance at'the Auckland Trades and Labour Council's meeting last night. -' ' The president (Mr. H. W. Brookes) occupied the chair.

The Technical School: The House Painters' Industrial Union advised that they did not intend to take any parr towards subscribing to the new technical college, being of the opinion that the Government could and should look after technical interests, instead of wasting money on things which are not of such vital importance. Their action was more of a protest than an actual objection to such a course. Mr. W. J. Morgan moved, That an educational committee be formed to assist the Education Board," but as there was 110 seconder tho motion lapsed. - The president said lie believed every unionist would subscribe his shilling and assist in this laudable work. It was to the workers' interest to assist this movement, and if they did not grasp the opportunity now they would be left in the lurch later.

Municipal Electric Power Works: The town clerk advised that tho report, upon the question of establishing electric power works in Auckland was expected in two or three weeks. Deferred until tho next meeting. _ • • Weight of Grain Sacks: In reply to a request from the Otago Trades and Labour Council it was decided to urge the Government to bring into force the regulations restricting the weight of grain in bags to 2001b.

Annual Report: The annual report, deferred from last meeting, stated that there were now 93 delegates, representing 20 unions with a membership of 1885. A complete, revision of the tariff had been urged, especially regarding coachbuilding and agricultural implement making.' Steps were being taken to form a co-operative company for the disposal of meat and produce-, owing to the high prices ruling. The co-operation of members was asked in securing a new technical school for Auckland. There were about.so unions in the Auckland province, and only 20 were affiliated. If the Council wished to increase its usefulness it must increase its strength. The report was adopted.

Congratulating the Premier: Mr. Fowler protested against the Council passing a resolution of congratulation to the Premier on his success at the elections. A motion that, the resolution be deleted from the "minutes was defeated.