30 Strike At Wau

Trouble With Workmen At Golden Ridges Mine, T.N.G.

A BOUT 30 workmen and miners at New Guinea Goldfields Ltd.’s Golden Ridges mine, near Wau, are on strike.

They have been out since November 9, and, when we go to press, the dispute is still unsettled.

Since August, eight engine-drivers have been pressing for an increase in wages of 4/- a day, from 26/- to 30/. On Saturday, November 9, they decided to cease work unless the matter was adjusted. Early the following week another 20 or more miners and artisans, although not directly concerned in the controversy, joined the strikers.

When N.G.G., Ltd., refused to accede to the men’s requests, they cabled the Fed erated Engine Drivers’ Union in Australia for support. It is understood that their case was received unsympathetically by the Trades Hall officials, as the New Guinea scale of wages is far in excess of what Australian unionists receive. In any event, the Union, having no official recognition in the Territory, would carry little weight with the authorities.

At present the strikers are occupying N.G.G.’s quarters; and, if a settlement is not reached shortly, it is understood the company will force the issue with a re quest to the employees to vacate its houses before steps are taken to eject them. Should terms be reached, it is understood that New Guinea Goldfields, Ltd., will not reinstate the engine-drivers.

This is the second recent strike at Golden Ridges. In September, 15 miners struck for an increase of 9/- per day.

After a conference with the mine manager, the men returned to work.

Interim dividend at the rate of 10 per cent, per annum for the six months ended September 30 last, being equal to 1/- per £1 share, was declared payable on No vember 15 by Burns, Philp and Co. Ltd.

For 1933-34 10 per cent, was paid.