Billy Hampton Explains.

NZ Truth, Issue 443, 13 December 1913, Page 2

Billy Hampton Explains.

He Did Not Hedge.

No Attempt to Side-track.

From information received "Truth" published, an 1 article last week dealing iwith the carpenters'" contribution to the Strike Fund m which It said) "It is alleged that when the * motion was moved Mr. Billy Hampton, ex-Presi-dent of the Wellington 'Trades and Labor Council, moved an amendment to the effect that, instead of voting, a lump sum of £100,' a special strike levy be made m aid of the strikers, to be distributed by the officers of the society. The amendment looked innocent enough m all conscience, and it is only when one is informed of the fact that the rules of the organisation make no provision for any such levy being legally collected that one realises any covert motive underlying the »otlin of the- mover of the amendment." It appears now that our friend, Hampton, has been misrepresented. He did not "hedge" and did not mako any attempt 'at side-tracking. As far as the vote of £100 was concerned,' he was m perfect sympathy with it, and did not endeavor to block it by a "side-wind." He says that at a meeting of his union a proposal was brought forward to vote £100 towards the' Distressed Strikers' Fund. According to the rules this procedure was Illegal, as a matter such as that required a special meeting. ' Under the circumstances ho proposed a voluntary levy with the proviso that all moneys so raised- should . NOT BE .HANDLED BT THE '/ FEDERATION. However, a majority voted for the £ 100. grant, so he Immediately warned tho secretary of the illegality of the proceeding. Consequently another meeting, m strict conformity with the rules, was held a fortnight* later, when the vote was agreed to unanimously with very little discussion and no opposition. "Truth" is pleased to publish this (.disclaimer on Billy's behalf, and to accept his assurance that he was not out of sympathy with tho strikers m the hour of their siurm and stress