5 FEBRUARY 1927, Page 3

Something might be done no doubt to prevent the real

cruelties .of so-called peaceful Picketing. Dr. Shadwell in his recent articles in the Times inclined towards a limitation of the number of those who may form a picket. The most potent form of intimidation among wage-earners, however, is social ostracism and no law could stop that. Then there is the political levy. Hundreds of thousands of trade unionists are secretly asking for protection against the misdirection of their funds. We still hope that the Government will make an attempt to see how far there could be agreed legislation. When Mr. Ramsay MacDonald said at Port Talbot that changes in the law "might be necessary," and that there ought to be an inquiry, he positively invited the Government to collaboration.