N.G. Miners' Union

Letter to the Editor AN article in August "PIM” implies that executives of the ALP Wau branch do not favour trade unions in New Guinea. As one executive of this body, may I be allowed to enlighten readers to the contrary?

Civilised democratic countries recognise the necessity for trade labour unions and encourage them, so why make New Guinea an exception?

The mining history of the Morobe Goldfields has been blotted with disputes and grievances between employer and employee and always it has been a one sided argument, with sole arbitrary powers held by the employer.

It was indicated in the September issue that a large majority of miners seemed hostile towards the formation of a union.

How does this reconcile with the fact that in a ballot taken on September 17, the elected officers were those in favour of a trade union? Voting was open to all eligible members and nearly all centres voted 100 per cent.

Our Union, in its future policy, is desirous above all things for peace and harmony in the NG gold mining industry.

We shall look after the general welfare of workers and endeavour to obtain the maximum in wages and conditions pos sible, in the best interests of the com munity in general. We shall conduct the Union in a constitutional and orderly manner.

The award made by Cogmmissioner Arthur Blakeley was announced only after an intensive inquiry. He made an extensive survey lasting several weeks.

Witnesses, both for and against, were summoned and the Commissioner’s deter minations were justly and fairly arrived at on the evidence tendered and con ditions generally in the Morobe District, I am, etc.,

King Laurance,

Secretary, NG and Papuan Miners and Workers’ Union.

Wau, TNG, 16/10/1941.