Two Sides of the Strike
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THE strike of fuel-tanker drivers in the London area has emphasized the complete dependence of the community on the internal-combustion engine and road transport. The Government's speedy intervention in the dispute indicated their appreciation of the importance of uninterrupted communications, but unfortunately that realization stops short of the provision of adequate highways.
It was a coincidence that the stoppage should have taken place during Road Safety Week, That fact must not be forgotten when accident statistics for the week are announced and the Government. must not be allowed to take credit for any reduction that has occurred. The roads must be made to accommodate the naturally growing traffic of the country, of the existence of which the strike has usefully reminded the public.
In all other respects, the stoppage is reprehensible. It has shown that even the most generous employers cannot rely upon the loyalty of the employees when a malicious influence gets to wonl It has emphasized once again that the growth ( trade Unionism has not been accompanied t a corresponding improvement of industrit discipline.
The dispute was based on an interference wit management that no employer could be expecte to tolerate and the Government did no more tha their duty in speedily calling on the Forces 1 deliver fuel. Steps must now be taken to ensu, that the strike is not repeated and is not allowe to fan discontent in other vital services.
The ringleaders should be expelled from men bership of the Transport and General Worket Union, and should be dismissed from the employment and sued for breach of contra( They have done their fellow workers and the employers the utmost disservice and they shou be made to pay the penalty.