THE ALLEGED “COMBINE”

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8441, 29 May 1913, Page 4

THE ALLEGED “COMBINE”

PROPOSAL CONDEMNED. Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH, May 28. To-day the rumour concerning negotiations for an agreement between the Federation of Labour and one or two shipping companies was discussed at meetings of the executives of the Employers’ Association, the Sheepowners’ Federation and the Farmers’ Union. A representative of the “Press” was informed that the Sheepowners’ Federation, the Farmers’ Union, and various trade organisations intend to disapprove of any such arrangement as has been spoken of, and if necessary an appeal will be made to the Government to try to save the situation if possible, A statement was made that some of those opposed to any arrangement to exclude free labour at the wharves will consider the possibility, as a last resort, of securing new shipping ar rangemonts. AUCKLAND, May 28. Tho following resolution was passed at a meeting of the Auckland Master Painters’ Association this evening: “That this meeting of Auckland master painters emphatically protests against the proposed agreement between the shipping companies and the Federation of Labour excluding free labour, as reported in the press, and considers that such action would have a most destructive effect on labour conditions throughout the Dominion.” AIM OF PROPOSED CONFERENCE EXPLAINED. Press Association. DUNEDIN, May 28. A prominent shipping official, questioned as to the reported conference between the Labour Federation and tho shipping representatives, said: “It is amusing to see how much pleasure some people in various centres are getting out of a mare’s nast.’’ He poiuts out-that tho matter of giving preference to unionists is not a new thing, but has been exercised in various agreements affecting the shipping and water-front industries. Further, under the present agreements, the preference clause specifically states that no serious hindrance shall be placed against any workman desirous of joining a union. The present agreement has still six months to operate, and the conference next week is to be held for the purpose of discussing several matters that have caused more or less friction in the past. He can see no attempt at prohibiting free labour.