MELBOURNE TRAM STRIKE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18708, 14 May 1924, Page 9

MELBOURNE TRAM STRIKE.

| DEADLOCK CONTINUES. CONFERENCES FRUITLESS. COMPLICATIONS FEARED. By Telegraph.Press Association— Copyright. (Received 11.55 p.m.) A. and N.Z. MELBOURNE, May 113. The compulsory : conference between the Tramway Board and the union, which was held at' the instance of Mr. Justice Powers, adjourned without result. At the end of the ; discussion His Honor stated that having now held two conferences, and the trouble still continuing, lie would refer the matter to the Arbitration Court. The series of conferences instigated by the Premier ended in complete failure. After hours of sitting, the board announced that the old positions would be open to men if they applied before 4..50 this' afternoon. A mass meeting of the union was held this morning to discuss the position. The men by an overwhelming majority decided against returning to work on the board's terms. The meeting requested the calling of a conference 'of the unio'iis comprising the transport workers' group to consider what action shall be taken." The tram sheds are being picketed in order to obtain the names of any unionists returning to work. It is now apparent- that, only immediate firm intervention by the Arbitration Court will prevent far-reaching complications. The Cabinet decided to uphold the Tramway Board in its policy of employing whom it wishes without dictation. ... GRIEVANCES OF POLICE. BRISBANE DEMONSTRATION. j A. and N.Z. BRISBANE, May 13. , The Metropolitan Queensland Police Union has decided that the members of j the union, both those on and those off duty, shall form a procession and march .to the Treasury to interview the Home I Secretary. The avowed intention is that the de- ! monstration shall be a peaceful one, the. sole object being ' the registration of | the grievances under which the force is labouring. Should the decision be carried into effect the streets of Brisbane will be without police protection during the procession.