Earlier Action Should Prevent Bus Strikes
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THE strike of drivers and conductors of the Central London buses is a regrettable occurrence, which we cannot but think should have been avoided. It is not as if sufficient warnings had not been given ; not only have there been sporadic outbreaks in various parts of the country, but in London. itself .friction, and, brief cessations of work at various garages have been the.order of things for some months past.
It has, therefore, been evident that something was radically wrong somewhere, and we have little doubt that anything in the nature of an important strike could have been avoided if an impartial inquiry had been instituted earlier.
Such trials of strength are apt -to injure both sides immediately concerned, may have farreaching effects in other directions, and 'certainly cause considerable inconvenience to the The employees can, to a considerable extent, be regarded as public servants, and whilst we have every sympathy for them in respect of their somewhat trying occupation, and wish to see their working conditions rendered as compatible as possible, we consider that their leaders were illadvised to risk prejudicing the public. From observations we have made we are convinced that a large body of opinion amongst the men was strongly adverse to any action of such a drastic nature, and it would be interesting to learn the results of a straight vote.
It would not be in order to discuss the pros and cons of the position while the inquiry is in progress, but we would point out that this Withdrawal of transport facilities is creating a bad impression amongst visitors from foreign countries and the Empire overseas, whilst, if it continues farther into the Coronation period, it will cause considerable embarrassment and reflect upon our national unity.