Bitter Trade Union Conflict Coming?

Wanganui Chronicle, 29 October 1948, Page 5

Bitter Trade Union Conflict Coming?

LONDON, Oct. 27 (Rec. 6 p.m.)— Observers in London foresee little chance of the World Federation of Trades Unions putting the organisation in “cold storage," as the General Council of the British Trades Unions Congress has recommended, says Reuter's industrial correspondent. . . . It is anticipated a bitter international trade union conflict will follow the decision. The threatened withdrawal of the British trade union movement from the W.F.T.U., however, would completely erase the already fading pretence of co-operation and brotherhood between .mqdernate and Communist trade unionism. It the T.U.C. withdraws from the W F T U. it is possible non-Communist unions would form a new international organisation. The American Federation of Labour, which has been strongly pressing for this for some time, would probably become a member. Commonwealth trade unions might also join.. . Trade union sources believe that m any case such forces will not be long delayed. Instances such as the quarrel between the mineworkers president (Mr. Will Lawther) and his Communist secretary (Mr. Arthur Horner), over support for the French miners strilz? have gone from the front pages but. are reported still to be simmering behind committee doors.

Direction Of Labour In Britain; Agreement To Continue It

(Reuter). LONDON. Oct. 28 (Recd. 6.50 pm). - Representatives of British employers and the trade union movement agreed to recommend that the direction of labour be continued in Britain for another year.

The control engagement order is due to expire on December 31. The decision was made by the National Joint Advisory Council, under the chairmanship of the Labour Minister (Mr. Strauss).