THE RAILWAYMEN.

Timaru Herald, Volume CVIII, Issue 16799, 1 April 1919, Page 11

THE RAILWAYMEN.

MINISTERS.REFORMS APPROVED. *BY ,CHRISTCHURCH MEMBERS, j (Per Press Association). CHRISTCHURCH, March 31. The largest meeting ©t raihvaymen ever-held in Christchurch took place' 1 yesterday, when Mi- Hampton, National President of "the Associated "Society obi Railway Servants reported on the con-fl ference with the Minister of Railways.; I The meeting resolved—"That, having' . heard ■ explanations of the new oiassi-. I fication proposals and improved ing conditions, the Minister be urged' to have'the proposals passed through Parliament at the _ earliest possible moment."

The meeting protested against the suggestion that legislation to give effect to the proposals should be delayed, as sufficient delay had already taken place, and. thtit" further . delay would cause- irritation 'and discontent throughout the' service. _ - | Speaking after the -meeting, Mr Hampton said that while unable to give, details of the proposals, he was pleased 'frith the 'way they had been received by members. Certain sections were dissatisfied with the details of the wages "schedule, but recognised that the improvement promised in the working conditions bo far as the whole service was concerned, marked a, distinct advance'on the. present'regime, and the general opinion was that the proposals 'should be accepted, as an important instalment of reform. ' 7 *

A CONFERENCE. v WELLINGTON, March 31. , The. Minister and the General Manager of Railways to-day met the* executive *of „the, Engine-drivers', Pirel men and .Cleaners' Association, and, placed before them the Department's programme of revised pay "and tions of employment. , |. , The. members, of the executive rasked' for time to consider the proposals, and this was agreed to/the" executive beings informed that they could discuss detaails with the 'management. v ' f '' ' w