PREFERENCE TO UNIONISTS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 13278, 10 September 1906, Page 7

PREFERENCE TO UNIONISTS.

According to "Freeborn Briton" in the llkkald of September 7 the trades unions have asked for a most cruel, selfish, and intolerable proposal in preference to unionists. I wish to differ. Supposing t>. trades unionist pays into his union and receives any benefit from the unitv of those members is lie not, entitled to it!'* Whereas the non-unionist steps in and get the same benefit as the unionist, and he lias jwid nothing to the upkeep of the union.' The union doors are' open to all at the small payment of 5s entrance fee and 6d a week, and the man who will not pay. that does not deserve any benefit. It is not because of any principle that he does not join a union, i but becaitfj lie will not pay the paltry Mini of 6d a week. "Freeborn Briton" -know* that unity is strength, and that, both capital and labour combine for their re&peotiva benefits, Say any number of people form a company and pay into its upkeep,. and, <■ when it. comes to paying a dividend, does he think that!"outsiders should came along and share in the profits, the same as the non-unionist does at the expense of the unionist? If our legislators take into consideration "Freeborn Briton's""prayer for justice and righteousness th?y will have no hesitation in granting preference to unionists. As for the remarks re actual cruelty and distress— grocers, etc.—tint' is nil bunkum. Trades unions are formed for the uplifting of the working classes; but there are some working men who have not got intelligence enough to see it. Cousin Jack. >. .