THE BLACKBALL STRIKE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 14357, 29 October 1908, Page 8

THE BLACKBALL STRIKE.

Sir,—l was not surprised at tho attitude of Mr David Pritchard, of Christchurch, over the Hon. J. A. Millar's position in connection with the Blackball strike, in which certain parties have .attempted to drag the Minister ot Labour into tho mire. Nobody deplores more than I do the fact that there was a strike at Blackball, which brought many people into serious trouble, anxiety, and perplexity. But tlio fact must remain that the solo responsibility did not rost with the lion, gentleman. but with the chairman of directors in Christchurch, the late Mr G. G. Stead. I am very pleased to hear that Mr Pritchard endeavoured to make peace between both parties. For this lie deserves our thanks,. But, notwithstanding his remarks about Rip Van' Winkle, etc., was it not a fact that, Mr Stoads illness prevented him from making a settlement on behalf of the directors? From a certain sourco I had complete information, and was led to believe such was the case, and a. settlement could early have been effected. Owing to my business and politics taking up my time I must- refuse to have further controversy on this question.—l am, etc., Wm. Fleming.