LABOUR HEADS AND INDUSTRIAL CHIEFS DINE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18044, 3 January 1927, Page 8

LABOUR HEADS AND INDUSTRIAL CHIEFS DINE.

MEET IN SECRET TO DISCUSS ANGLOGERMAN CONDITIONS. By Telegraph.—Press Assn. Copyright. “ Sydney Sun ” Cable. (Received January 3. 9.15 a m.) LONDON, January 2. The newspaper “Dispatch” reveals that a secret dinner party was held at Lord Wimborne’s London residence during Christmas week and at its discussions were inaugurated for securing greater stability of industry. Proposals for co-operation agreeable to employers and workers were examined. Those present included Mr Churchill. Lord D’Abernon, Lord Wimborne. Sir Hugo Hirst. Mr Philip Snowden, Mr J. R. Clynes, Mr A. Pugh. Mr C. R. Cramp, and Mr R. Williams, ex-chairman of the Labour Parly. They were told the object of the gathering was to enable them, as responsible leaders, to hear Lord D’Abernon ’s account of German schemes for industrial co-operation. A hint was also given that the discussion might take a more domestic turn. This happened. Lord D'Abcrnon's narration afforded plenty of scope for a comparison of Anglo-German conditions, after which the calamities of 1926 were freely discussed. and also the prospects of a better understanding in 1927. The Trades Unionists lengthily questioned Lord D’Abernon, who cleared up many points, enabling an examination of bow German methods were adaptable to Britain. It was pointed out that Sir Arthur Balfour’s Committee on Trade Relations would be reporting at an early date, probably offering important recommendations for industrial peace and goodwill, which all agreed were essential. It is understood that Lord Churchill expressed the opinion that the Government would bless any projects aiming at co-operation. Mr Churchill was greatly impressed by the Trades Unionists’ frankness. A further meeting was not arranged, but hopes were generally expressed that the discussions would be* resumed in the near future, when it might be possible to give Sir Arthur Balfour’s recommendations in a concrete shape.