TRADES AND LABOUR.

Otago Witness, Issue 2253, 6 May 1897, Page 16

TRADES AND LABOUR.

Sydney, April 29. Mr Reid, the Premier, promised a deputation of the unemployed that the Government would do all that is possible to relieve distresß. Amongst other public works it was proposed to expend LIOO.OOO regarding the railways. The colony's finances were splendidly strong, and they could get millions if they wanted them, bub they were not going to spend money unless on reproductive works.

Adelajde, April 28. The Baotmakers' Union have decided to open a cj-opsrative factory to find work for » the strikers. They have received large offers of support.

(Fxtoar Ottb Own Correspondent. >

Wellington, April 28. Carpenters here are agitating for an inccease of the wages of c*rpsnters ia the Government workshops from 9s to 10s per day, the latter being the rate now paid here by private employers. In answer to a deputation to-day, the Hon. Mr Cadmaa pointed out that the railway men possessed privileges which carpenters working for private masters did not have, such as reduced fares, an annual holiday on fall pay, &3., and that he was unable under the Railway Classification Acb to iucrease the rates o£ pay. Up, however, explained fchab ib was intended to consult the various branches of the Ferviee in reference to the rates of wages, and he promised that the representations made by the deputation would have his fullest consideration.