The Syrian Questions

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 11645, 24 August 1905, Page 5

The Syrian Questions

TO THE EDITOR.

Sir, — A local lately appeared in the Wellington Post re the Syrian question. It says the Syrians, before the Shops and Offices Act came into force, dealt largely in imitation articles of jewellery, and now they had become sellers of genuine" "jewellery. Now, .sir, the Syrian always carries genuine and imitation jewellery and ottiei; goods. These goods arc 'always shown to" the people,' and the price stated,, and. it rests with the people" themselves' whether they are satisfied with the article they purchase. It also stated that these. alienß are competing unfairly with New Zealand-? ers. Now, sir, there are many other people besides Syrians plying their calling in New Zealand. What about them? ,-The. Labour Bills Committee are wise men, or they would not be placed, in the position of meting out justice to all parties. ..The' Syrian- has to pay rates and taxes, and he is entitled to the same freedom as other people. Regarding the Syrian 'employing ° no labour, if their business required an. assistant they would obtain one "without hesitation. It would, no doubt, satisfy the Wellington jeweller if he could see all the Syrian shops closed and his own kept open. The Syrian does sell the genuine article, and that is what the Wellingr ton jeweller is jealous of, or he would? not take the trouble to interfere with him. If the Syrian keeps his shop open later than other people that is .his own business," and everyone else has the satoe privilege. This jeweller no, doubt thinks , the earth belongs to no one . but himself, and h* has no doubt tried to satisfy hjs.oWH. desires by trying to injure bjs fellowrman 1 in his "usual calling. Thanking you for your kindness in inserting this letter. — I am, .etc., ' .. , , . Y. EOORJJY. Avenue, Wanganui. ' " ;