“BLACK” MINES

Southland Times, Issue 21431, 27 June 1931, Page 5

“BLACK” MINES

WATERSIDERS REFUSE TO HANDLE COAL. (Per United Press Association.) Dunedin, June 26. A private telegram stated that the Westport wateraiders this morning had declined to load any coal from the mines declared “black,” which are those working on the tribute system. The Komata which was to have loaded to-day was consequently held up. It is understood the crew of the vessel also stated that they would not carry coal if put on board by others than wateraiders. The Railway Department controlling the Westport loading thereupon decreed that if the Komata was not loaded, no other coal would be loaded. CALL FOR LABOUR TO-DAY. Westport, June 26. As there was heavy rain this afternoon and no prospects of work, the railway authorities did not call for labour to load the Komata, but a call will be made al 8 a.m. to-morrow. It is understood that no effort will be made to load other shipping until the wateraiders agree to handle the Cascade and Charming Creek shipments for the Komata. The litoki, of the Anchor Line, is in port and the Westport Coal Company’s Canopus is due from Auckland in the morning.