UNDER THE RED FLAG

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXI, Issue 18791, 28 May 1923, Page 5

UNDER THE RED FLAG

COMMUNISTS RULE GERMAN TOWN BIG FOUR IN COMMAND By Telegraph.—Press Association. ... —Copyright. Received May 27, 8.30 p.m. LONDON, May 26. Following upon riots instigated by Communists against food prices, the town of Gelsenkirchen is now under Communist rule, working through four trade unions. At a meeting of the unions the first step was to form a new police force, in which the unions are represented. A committee of action has been constituted, consisting of one representative of each union, known as the 4 ‘Big Four.” They have seized principal control and issued an order forbidding demonstrations and looting of shops. They have decreed the prohibition, of even light beer and wines. The burgomaster is powerless to prevent the innovations. Already some food prices have been fixed, and the population henceforth will be rationed to prevent hoarding. The Communist leader says: “ Gelsenkirthen will be run on Communist lines, and this is only tho first step.” He pointed out with satisfaction that the government president of the district consented to the burgomaster agreeing to the terms, also that the new police will be paid by the state, not by the town. Municipal authorities are allowed to carry out these duties, but all power rests with tho “Big Four.” —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.