"A BOLT FROM THE BLUE."

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7701, 9 May 1903, Page 5

"A BOLT FROM THE BLUE."

(Received May 9, 10.54 a.m.) MELBOURNE, May 9.

. The "Age,"- this morning, says, "The sudden Tesolve of the Engine Drivers Executive to strike comes like a bolt frpm the blue. It seems to have been no part of the men's original campaign.. It is not a strike for better pay, fairer treatment or better conditions. The Premier distinctly promised that he would see all the. real grievances of the railwaymen redressed. Therefore, there can be no parade of grievances to justify a strike and the contest of the men to exalt themselves in authority above Parliament and the Government , of the country. We venture to say that no body of men in any State ever exhibited more selfish andi callous indifference to the interests of jheir fellow citizens." deceived May 9, 11.39 a.m.) Many, of the Executives are entitled to compensation ranging from £200 to £565, or pensions from £52 to £113. Both Messrs Irvine and Bent were greeted with hooting and counter cheers on appearing in the street. The secretary of the engine men is confident of success. . He says that there is no chance of the Department instituting a service of any value to the public. Men who are not used to the roads cannot run engines without .endangering human life. Besides, the engines are in a disgraceful Condition, and in the hands of inexperienced men will fail.

[Peb. Pbbss Association.] INVEEOARGILL, May 9. The Southland Trades' Council has wired ita sympathy with' Jhe Victorian railwaymen, and a promise of monetary assistance if necessary. -..'..."''