OUR READERS’ OPINIONS.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 3701, 10 December 1912, Page 3

OUR READERS’ OPINIONS.

WAIHI STRIKE AND THE WORKERS

(to the editor.) Sir, —A correspondent in your issue of Saturday suggests that the Labor unions should not respond to the invitation of the Federation of Labor to meet in conference to heal the breach existing between the rival bodies. No valid reason was given except that the “Feels” heaped, abuse on the United Labor Party. . But what are the indictments hurled by Professor Mills and other leaders of the latter party towards the Federation ? When ail is said and done, it cannot ho gainsaid that both parties are sincere in their utterances, and whilst their methods are somewhat divergent it is plain that both wish to reach the same goal. That granted, it is the only possible solution of the differences that confront the two bodies that they should confer and agree upon a common course of action to achieve their ends. As regards the statement about the two strongest Labor organisations retiring from the Trades and Labor Council, and the insinuation that their goal was the Federation of Labor, as one who is in a position to know, I can confidently say that no such move was intended The withdrawal of the unions from the Trades and Labor Council brought about by many questions a Led at the meetings as to what benefit they were deriving by being member? of that body, and what result they, got from their cash contributions. The old parrot cry about men living on the game is all hl'ooushine, as it has been officially stated, that the loaders of the unfortunate Waihi strike are in receipt of no salary,'but are merely paid travelling expenses. Let all workers unite, and let- bygones lie forgotten, and while admitting the foolishness of the Waihi strike, I think there is hope yet.—l am, etc., DRIVER.