UGLIER TURN IN STRIKE

Southland Times, Issue 22914, 12 June 1936, Page 7

UGLIER TURN IN STRIKE

Processions In Paris ARMED AGENTS ARRESTED / - Faction Clash Feared (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 5.5 p.m.) London, June 11. The Paris correspondent of The Times says that the elation in Government and Labour circles at the settlement in principle of the strike is evaporating. There is even renewed alarm in some quarters, not only because the strikers refuse to resume despite the generous terms, but because the strike, hitherto a model of discipline and good humour, is taking an uglier turn. The Minister of Defence (M. Edouard Daladier) has announced the arrest of a number of armed agent-provocateurs, and the strikers are organizing street demonstrations in Paris and elsewhere. A procession to-day obstructed traffic. There is a danger of such demonstrations becoming unmanageable, especially as the Prime Minister (M. Leon Blum) declared that he would not use force against the strikers, which is regarded as a blunder, even by friendly critics. There is also the possibility of counter demonstrations by the Croix de Feu (Fascists) and less peaceful bodies. Beginning Of New Phase. The Paris correspondent of The Manchester Guardian considers that it is becoming clearer every day that France is entering upon a new phase. She is tired of three years of depression; she considers that conservatism and economic caution are played out, and is prepared to engage in experiments regardless of the danger. The psychological atmosphere has enormously improved, hope replacing widespread pessimism, even among the employers. The textile trade in the North of France sent a deputation to M. Blum urging that the increased costs would necessitate export subsidies to enable the industry to compete in colonial and foreign markets. Dr. Paul Reynaud, a former Minister of Finance, Dr. Louis Rollin, a former Minister of Commerce, and other critics strongly opposed the Bill for the introduction of the 40-hour week during a discussion of it by a Parliamentary Commission. M. Alexis Jaubert, a Radical-Socialist, reserved his opinion, which is regarded as significant, as the Radical-Socialists were expected to support the Bill. M. Blum defended the measure and contended that the 40-hour week would accelerate currency rhythm. He promised to give vigorous support to the weaker industries.