PICKETING AND COUNTER-PICKETING.
[TO TILE EDITOR Or THIS "SPECTA10E.7]
SIR,—I read with much interest in your issue of last week an article on " Picketing and Counter-Picketing." It must be obvious to impartial observers that paralysis of trade, mob violence, and grave discomfort to law-abiding citizens are, in the opinion of our present Government, matters of trivial im- portance when compared with the acquisition or retention of the Socialist -vote. Under these circumstances it is futile to expect of our rulers either the repeal or the proper amend- ment of the Trade Disputes Act, and the time has arrived when the general public should take a part in what has hitherto been a conflict between employers of labour and trade unionists. Though agreeing with the suggestions in your article as to the necessity for the organization of counter-pickets, I realize the fact that many employers suffer such heavy losses during strikes that they can ill afford to bear any extra expense. The protection of the free labourers is now vital to the interests of the community. Much money will be needed if the organization of counter-pickets is to be thoroughly efficient. —I am, Sir, &c.,
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