MR J. C. THOMSON AND HIS CRITICS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 11993, 16 March 1901, Page 8

MR J. C. THOMSON AND HIS CRITICS.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir,—l have not the slightest intention to allow myself to be drawn into eorrc?pondenco n» the subject matter of my address to the Industrial Association, but just to show that I do not occupy an " isolated position " regarding labour' organisations I append the opinions of a working man of_ Glasgow, no mean city all will readily admit, and which appeared in one of the papers there recently. They are clcar'y and pithily given, and T commend them to the consideration of all interested in industrial mnttcri.—l am, etc., J. C. Thomson-. Duncdin, March 15. Speaking on " Trade Unions " at a meeting of tho Glasgow Branch of the National Free Labour Association recently Air W. Kills, the district secretary, coil, tended that there was 110 subject upon which it was so necessary for the industrial classes to clear their minds of cant as that of trade union?. Many workmen, intelligent enouah on many questions, appeared to believe that these were divine institutions that could do no barm, and indulged in language that would not stand the test of adverse criticism. Trade unions had great powers, and were seeking more, with fewer responsibilities. He believed the workman was enfeebled and his sense of selfreliance destroyed by their operation, for re-

strictions were placed on his labour which prevented him from reaping the fruits of the abilities he was endowed with. He advocated international and universal free trade in labour and its products, which would do more to accomplish the "brotherhood of man" than all the trade unions in existence.