Choose between two evils May 18, 1895.

*THE WORKER*

BRISBANE, MAY 18, 1895.

Boot Trade Dispute.

For months past the members of the Boot Trade Union have had to choose between two evils – a reduction of wages or a strike. To avert the latter, and in order to secure some voice in the conditions under which they work, they approached the boot manufacturers asking for a conference. Nothing satisfactory came of this. A little over a month ago the manufacturers had several meetings the result of which was the forwarding of a statement of wages to the union with a footnote to the effect that this statement will take effect from the 16^th April. No mention of a conference. No allowance to the men to have a voice in their own affairs. This statement was discussed by the men, but owing to the enormous reductions proposed the men did not take it seriously, rejected it, and asked for a conference. The only reply they received to the request for a conference was that they would be given till May 15^th to “digest” the masters' statement, till when 10 per cent would be deducted from their earnings. The men, to avoid trouble, accepted the reduction under protest, thinking matters would be cleared up before the 15^th instant. The 15^th arrived, and things still being the same, the men ceased work, and will not resume until a conference is granted or old rates are restored.

The repeated attacks of the employers have been the means of bringing into line many who have in the past fought against the union. These men realise that, after helping capital against labour, they share the misery they cause. The outlook for the sons of St. Crispin is so dark, with cheap boy labour and the advent of machinery, that now is every man's time to do his duty; and, whatever may be the outcome of the present struggle, every man engaged in it will have the satisfaction of having borne his part in defence of Labour's rights. It is to be hoped the employers will grant the conference at once. The men are ready, and with a proper spirit both parties can amicably tide over what may be a serious and prolonged strike.

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THE steamer Kurrara was recently loaded in Brisbane so that the Plimsoll mark was completely covered. The captain, evidently, was willing to take the terrible risk of going to sea, and probably the steamer was insured. The seamen and firemen, not being insured, had lives to lose, and very rightly objected to a risk that was not only dangerous but contrary to law. The attention of the shipping authorities was called to the state of the vessel with a result that a large amount of cargo had to be put ashore. The officers and engineers of the Kurrara who held their tongues ought to be very thankful to the sailors and fireman who had the courage to speak out and so prevent what might have caused the loss of valuable lives. The shipping authorities, however, should have exercised the necessary vigilance without the intervention of the crew, as in many cases men even risk their lives, knowing if they go against the wishes of the captain it means discharge.