We would call the attention of our readers to a
very able and luminous article by Professor Dicey in the current number of the National .Review on the Trade Disputes Bill. Under the title of "A Protest against Privilege," he has given us the fullest statement of the overwhelming case against the proposed measure. He proves that the Bill will make the Trade-Unions a privileged class, placed above the ordinary law of the land; that the reasons alleged in favour of this policy of privilege are of the weakest; and that the result will be grave practical evils. On the question of the reform of the law of conspiracy we should be inclined to differ from Pro. fessor Dicey, and regard that section of the Bill as justified ; but we are wholly in agreement with his strictures on the notorious Clause IV., which gives immunity from actions in tort, and on the dangerous policy adopted towards "peaceful picketing." He shows, to our mind conclusively, that there is no justification for such provision either in law or in common- sense, and that the Bill, if passed, will go far to corrupt the English democracy.
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