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    6 *TM w/vuTHiti ^ S TAR May 20, 1847 -

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    Conference Of..Tiie Nationa L,'Asso-..^-...

    Wentten ' to reduce wages , if the men _dii _uat com- . OT _^ o _^«« wipVvs _« _ato paj the . am * _n- £ did . The _Central Committee _thou- _^ ft _^ j men should have an _ad * an _£ , a _, an r « istB reduction . They , therefore , upon _implication , sent a deputation to Oxford , who found _*^ statement made to the Central Committee _corr-^ t . As soon as tbe low-paying employers found the ( Ventral Committee in earnest as to _setting their men at work unless they raited their prices , they _conceded the required advance . _•• _SiocKPaaf Bleacheks . — The hands emp loyed by one firm were offered a reduction of If | per cent . The Central Committee advised dne legal notice to be given that they would leave if this reduction was : persevered in , and t > continue working under protest . Previous to the expiration of the notice , a member of the Central Committee vm sent to Stockport , and after u long interview the emplo agreed to give the anginal prices .

    yer _"FehawSilk Poweb-Loo H _Wee «* s , Manchester . Similar results attended the mediation ofthe _Csntral Committee in the case of a redaction , last April , in this "lnall _thesectses the Central Committee succeeded _fcy mediation _ncly , or & y the _vnsxterB having ascertained they were nicking preparations for employing the different parties , la the _followrng'Casss , the operatives were withdrawn , and set to worthy the Association , through tin mediuss of the Association for tbe Employment of Industry .

    _»« See _« e _Wkavebb _ofCsLLCHrr-JN . —This body complained to the Central _Oemmittee that three years ago their employer induced _Ttieni to forego a portion -of their wages , in consideration of which he would find _driwrs , _shuttls ? , oil , and ether necessaries for their work ; which agreement , - _& ter having been acted upon for some time , he violated , and demanded that the wen _shotdd find these articles themselves _^* alteration which was equivalent to _^ reduction of Is . 6 d . to 2 s . per week from their already scanty earnings . They applied for these extras , bat were refused ; And having thereupon struck , they were set to -work by the Association . " _DnrriEiD _SsK Gloves ? . —In September last , this Body entered into a strike without the -sanction of the Central Committee , consequently precluding their being _supported by die Association . When the strike closed _, the _employers'discharged four men -on account ofthe active part they had taken , who were immediately employed , and _asa still at work , for the Association .

    "Lye and-Cradley _jutlhaSebs . —The men were employed in this case as tbe only means of preventing their submission tc a serious reduction in prices . _"NorritfSHAH _Fbahe-Wosx _"Knitters . — In several cases of _oppression in this trade the Central Committee bare interfered and employed the m ? n . " _TTiucscow Hasd-Loox _Weatebs . —An employer reduced the wages of some of his hands sixpence per piece , and in other cases increased the length of the piece . Thirty-two of bis hands _areernplojed by the Association . _"Loiwos Tis Plate _Wossebs . —An employer near Leicester-sqnare reduced the price for making railway lamps . Upon being waited upon , he said he could not afford more than he offered . The Central _Committee not being able to prevail upon him to withdraw tbe reduction , employed the men .

    " In addition to these trade cases , many individual instances of oppression have occurred , in which the Central Cemmittee have deemed it to be their duty to extend support and assistance in this way . "There are at present employed by the Association for tbe Employment of Labour the following trades and numbers of persons : — . 12 Frame-work knitters at _Nottingham 1 ditto Daybrook 5 ditto Sutton in _Ashfield 8 Glove-makers Dcffield 16 Serge-weavers Collumpton 32 Hand-Ioom-weavera Wihnslow 13 Tuck seek hands Thurmaston 6 ditto Oadby 27 Shoemakers London 1 _Damask-weaver _Wigan 2 Tin-plate-workers London 122 Men .

    " In _accordance with the resolutions passed at last Conference , and to enable the sister Association to carry out this part of tbe plan , the Central Committee took up 583 £ a shares , upon which they have during the year paid £ 4 each , amounting to a total of £ 2 , 000 thus In-Tested . Besides the numbers they employed , there are sow twenty men receiving pay according to the rule , in consequence of the Association not being in a position , either from the nature of their occupation or other causes , to set them to work . _"Manchester _Bciuhkc Teases . —The only case in which the _Asrodation can be said te have experienced painful _cifficolties was that of the Building Trades of Manchester . After an expenditure of £ 408 19 s . lid ., _besides a large sum bv these trades themselves , that

    _strke terminated as too many have done before it . This failure , however , so far from throwing any discredit upon the Association , ateists by contrast to prove its ¦ value and efficiency . The Association had nothing whatever to do either with the strike at its commencement , or its management during its continuance . It was only at the close of a protracted and severe struggle , and when the ceatest was virtually decided iu favonr of the employers , that the Conference of last year , _sympathising with the determined and intr . pid conduct which bad been _manifested by the building trades in defence of their _rights , sad anxious to assist them , agreed to reso lotions by which these trades were recommended to the consideration and support of the Central Committee , who , _acting upon the sp ' rit of tbeserecommendations _, not only took steps to bring the pecuniary resources of the association totheiraid . bat borrowed money on the faith of these resource ? for that purpose . That assistance , however , was not sufficient to avert die unfortunate termination

    of the straggle . It is deeply to be _rtgretted , 8 lso , that this untoward _efiair caused a misunderstanding between the Central Committee and the _Manchester District Committee , which was a source of much anxiety and pain tothe Central Committee . They aoted strictly on the laws of thp Association in the case , but the District Committee to jk a different view of the subject , and appealed to the _Association for its support to their construction of the matter at issue . The Central Committee were urged by the Manchester District Committee to call a special conference to consider the queslior , dut declined doing ; so ; they , however , summoned a special _mserinj ol the Central Committee , including the provineial members , at which _meeting , after hearing Mr Peel on behalf of the Manchester District Committee , and _giving the subject the fullest consideration , the _provineial members came to the resolution that the London members had dene their duty in carrying out the recommendations of Conference with reference to the

    Manchester Building Trades , and that the constructions put upon the resolutions of Conference was neither erroneous nor unjust . As the consideration of this and one or _tws other disputed matters may come under the consideration of the Conference at a future stage of the business , it is unnecessary now to advert to it . at greater length . The Central Committee have performed their duty to the best of their judgment ; they court investigation , and will cheerfully abide the issue . " Another case in which the Committee interfered may be briefly noticed—that of the Redditch Needlemahers . The nun had been on strike some time before applying for admission into the Association , a fact which was not stated at the time they made that application . Shortly after joining they informed the Central Committee that they were on strike , aud solicited assistance . The Cen .

    tral Committee sent a deputation to Redditch , who reported there was every chance of _success if the Central Committee wonld aid them by a loan . The Central Committee , upon that representation , advanced at different times £ 100 , to be repaid as soon as the dispute was adjusted . That loan has not been repaid . Itmust , however , be specially noted that in thb , as in the Han-Chester case , the Central Committee were not consulted at the commencement of the strike ; they bad no chance of mediating between the parties before it took place ; they bad nothing to do with its management , and they did not , as in other cases , bring tbe well-prepared and concentrated energies of the Association to bear upon it . So that it cannot be considered as impugning , in tbe slightest degree , the efficacy of tbe principle which , under the direction of the Central Committee , has proved so uniformly unsuccessful .

    "On the whole , tbe conclusion which may fairly be derived from the preceding summary of the principal cases in which the Central Cummittee have interfered is , that wherever the principle of the Association baB _Ixen fairly carried out , it has invariably proved successful , and where a failure has taken place it has ' been owing to a neglect of that principle , and the absence of those precautions to ensure a satifactory settlement before entering upon a contest , which are the especial duty and care ofthe Association . " The two cases in which the Association expended the largest sum of money with tbe least satisfactory results were these in which the old system of strikes had been resorted to . In all the cases conducted by the Central Committee not only was success attained , but the income from the levies of each , trade 60 assisted has much _exceeded the cost of the victories in their respective cases .

    " Tbcck Ststeh . —Deeply sensible of the effects of this pernicious sjstem , the Central Commiiteebavemade every eff . ir t to put it down . Their own conviction is , that no method can be so iffectual as that of providiug employment for the men who may be discharged for giving evidence against those masters who infringe the law . This has been done in all ca ? es of this description which have come before the Central Committee , and _tbf-y believe that if this fact becomes generally known , it wonld embolden the sufferers from this unlawful and vicious traffic to make known the injustice of which they are the victims , while the truck masters , _taught a wholesome lesson by the penalties inflicted upon them , would cease their nefarious practices . Of these _penalties , it must be _recollected that one-half reverted to the _Arsocistioa . Kit is properly supported in the attempt to put dywn _tiiis cryiug evil , general success would be inevitable .

    _"Ejiplothekt of _Isdiviouals . —la several instances individuals have been set to work who have been _discharged inconsequence of taking part in the proceedings of the As ' _socUtion . This is the most effective way of encouraging an _independent spirit & iuo . ' , g the men , and of _showtns the employers that they have no longer the power to starve or , ruin the individual who asserts his _privilegejof free speech and free action ia defence of his rights and those of his fellow-workmen . - _"Nevt Office foe the Association . —In the course of the . year tbe _largely-increased and increasing opera _tions compelled the Central Committee to look out fo

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    _more c _^ _modious _frem _^ _sin whicfc _^ ucssof the Association with the requisite facilities , the Board of Directors ofthe Association for tbe Employment of Labour have taken a lease of very eligible premises at 11 , _Totteuham-court-road , where the whole of the businessof the two Associations is now concentrated , and thitof this _Association conducted under the _superlns ; ndence of the Central Committee . Mr Bonell , one of the members of the Committee , having resigned his seat at the Board , the Central Committee , in accordance with - . h _« powers vested in them by the constitution , elected Mr Mayne _, another of the Carpenters' delegates , to fill the vacancy until a new election by the present Conference . u Petitions to P _* _ai , i 4 MEiiT , —The Central Committee have during the year presented petitions to Parliament against the Truck System , in favour of the Ten Hours ' Bill , and praying for a just and impartial system of HatHjn-il Education , instead of the partial and imperfect scheme ofthe Government ,

    " Income and _Expendi-iobe . —The total amount of levies and subscriptions _revived from June , 1846 , to the end of April , 1847 , was £ 4 , 0 S 0 15 s ' 0 | d . The expendituro for management , including salaries and travelling _expenses of missionaries , and Central Committee , ' expe . ttt-s of deputations to meditate in . cases of dispute , _Secretary ' s salary , stationery , rent , -fcc , during the saute period , amounted to £ 877 18 s . $£ d . Two thousand pounds , as has been _already stated , was invested with the sister Association ; the balance remains in the hands of tbe bai ) ker « hd treasurer . " Fotore Polict . —n & vingas briefly as was consistent

    with theuataie of the business given an outline of-the proceedings of tbe past year , the Central Committee : leem it to be their duty to say a few words upon matters connected witb the future policy of the Association . They offer these remarks not iu the spirit of dictation hut-simply as the result of tbeir experience , which they would not be doing their duty to the Association were they to withhold from its knowledge and consideration It will be observed by the business paper that several alterations are proposed in the laws . The Central Committee are aware ofthe injury which is frequently done iu Associations of this description by hasty and ill-considered _legislation , and needless changes . They _deprecate alt such legislation aud alteration , being fully convinced

    that , in the majority of cases , when a plan has been carefully matured by experienced minds , as the constitution of this Association undoubtedly was , subsequent attempts to amend it run great risk of impairing , if not _destroying , its efficiency . Continuity and steadiness of action are indispensable pre-requisites to success in any great undertaking , and these elements cannot be looked for where the spirit of change , is constantly at work . All alterations , therefore , should be proposed first from a sense of their imperative necessity , based upon , a practical knowledge of the working of the constitution ; and , second , witb a view to make them fit into the other parts of the structure in a harmonious tnanuer . In this spirit the alterations are tuvugkt forward . They principally relate to one point , but that is an important

    one : —• " The Constitution of the Governing Bow . —The events of the past year have demonstrated that itis utterly impossible for the Central Committee , as originally constituted , to conduct the business of this great and growing association . It appears that tbe time has come when a permanent directory must become part of the _machinery of the Association , recognised by the Conference , and legalised by _ths constitution . The Central Committee for the p _» 6 t year trust that the events of which they have given a brief summary will be sufficient ground for an act of indemnity from Conierence for having been , in fact , forced in that position . They leave the question in the bands of Conference , confident that it will receive what it desi-rves—a full and impartial consideration .

    " Union Between the Two Associations . —Another point of scarcely inferior importance than the preceding is the means by which a more thorough amalgamation may take place between this Association and the Association for the Employment of Labour . That _Association appears to the Central Committee to be indispensable to the proper aud efficient working of this . They are , in fact , the two parts of one great scheme , either of which is defective without the other . At present difficulties are experienced in the working of the two , which it is desirable should be obviated , and the Central Committee trust the- Conference will give its best attention to the means by which this object can be achieved .

    "The progress ofthe Association during the short time it has been in existence is full of promise for the future , if a spirit of impartiality , reason , and brotherly kindness , pervades onr deliberations and animates our actions _. We have , almost at the very , outset , achieved triumphs , which even the most sanguine could not have anticipated at this early stage . What may we not hope for in future , if the Association is prudently and properly managed , and when it has acquired the strength of a well matured and firmly consolidated organization , directed by men enlightened by the experience arising from pas' practice , and bringing all their powers to bear upon its success ! " It would be unjust to close _t'as report without making allusion to two causes which have materially contributed to produce tbe results which the Central Committee have had so much pleasure in _recording . The one is the act of kindness ef the proprietor of the Northern Star , in gratuitously setting apart weekly , several columns of

    his paper to reports of the proceedings ofthe Association , and to the insertion of such other documents as the Central Committee find necessary to make public , Tbe frank generosity with which this most valuable boon was conferred and his been continued , will , the Central Committee ' are confident , be appreciated as it deserves by every member of the Association . To tbe editor of the Morning Advertiser , the Association is also deeply indebted for the frequent and impartial notices of the Association which have appeared in the columns of that journal , and for tbe attention and space which it gives to all matters _affecting the interests of tbe industrious classe _* . Other portions of tbe press have as yet bat sparingly-noticed the Association ; but there it no doubt that asit progresses , and its really conservative and peaceable character becomes known , that it will receive that justice which that great organ of popular opinion never , in the long run , withholds from anything calculated to benefit society .

    "Above all , however , the Central Committee would direct attention to the unparalleled exertions , and the in valuable strricesof the _honourable and highly respected President of the Association , T . S . Duneombe , Esq ., M . P . It is perhaps no exaggeration to say , that but for his constant , unvarying , and close attendance at all the meetings of the Central Committee , to every minutise connected with the Association ; to his great talents as a man of business , his long experience ot public life , and , above all , his lofty and disinterested patriotism , tbe Association would never have reached its present position , er achieved those triumphs wbich have been so proudly and gratefully enumerated . So long as tbe Association is favoured by having Mr Duneombe at its head , a

    guarantee will be given to the working classes that their interests and rights will be faithfully watched aud patriotically advocated ; and to the other classes of society , that nothing ilk-gal , unconstitutional , or unjust , will ever be attempted by thb Association . Whatever power it may ultimately attain will be used for the improvement of the condition of the labouring classes , without trenching upon the just rights and privileges of others . Long may it be honoured and strengthened by the presidency of a man whom England acknowledges to be one of the most independent and useful Members of the Legislature , and whom Labour ' s sons have universally adopted as their champion . " By order ofthe Committee , " Thomas Babeat , Secretary .

    The _readiRg of this report was frequently interrupted by cheers , audits conclusion was greeted with loud applause . Mr Patten , of Manchester , said before preceeding to any other business , there was a matter of great import _, ance to which he wished to call the _attention of _thecon . f _. rence . Hefouad that there were two colours of tickets of admission delivered to delegates , one blue and another white . He wished to know the canse of that difference , and whether the delegates were considered to hold different privileges indicated by the colour of the card f

    Mr Robson , on the port of the Central Committee , explained that the difference had been made by the Central Committee , from no wish to dictate to the conference on the subject , bnt from a desire to ditect its attention to the matter . ' The delegates holding white cards represented trades who had paid up all their subscriptions ; and the blue cards those trades which were in arrears . It was the opinion of the Central _Committer that the latter delegates should have the power of speaking on every question that might come before the conference , but that they should n » t vote upon money questions . It was , however , a question which was left to the confer _, ence to decide .

    Mr Diamond moved that no delegate whose trade is above four month * in arrears of levies shall vote at the present conference , but it is competent to such delegates to speak upon " all questions . De considered that it was absolutely essential that none bat those trades who had contributed to the funds should vote in their disposalor on money questions generally . Mr Jenkins seconded the motion . Mr Pabkeb moved as aa amendment , that a committee of five be now appointed , to inquire into tho eligibility of those in possession of blue cards to vote on matters connected with this conference , and report thereon to the conference _. The amendment was seconded by Mr Peel .

    An animated and lengthened discussion ensued on this motion and amendment , in which Messrs Diamond , Robson , Claughan , Berry , Emmett , S . Taylor , Hawkesworth , Dean , Forsyth , and Green , supported the motion , on the ground that it was unjust to the trades who had acted iu accordance with the rules , and paid up their subscriptions , to allow those whe had not done so to act in conference , us if they had fulfilled the conditions of _memberships . There must be a test by which they could distinguish between those who were _members and those

    who were not , and it was the usual method adopted in all societies to take the payment of subscriptions us that test . What inducement could they otherwise hold out to the trades to forward their subscriptions , if tbey knew that they would be permitted to sit at conference and take part in all the business ofthe Association _whetht-r they contributed to the pecuniary support of the Association or not ? In no local trades' union would parties be permitted to take part in the business , on any pretence , who had not qualified themselves by regular payments .

    Messrs Patten , James , Jacobs . _Chance , lUilly , Isherwood , Bailey , Peacock , and Taylor , opposed the motion , because the Committee hud _issut _? nrocepts by which all

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    the parties then pre .. ' nfta ' _^^^ _^ _^ meeting , ahu It w 6 uiahe mo « _t Unjust _, after bringing them eiiyon a distance , to deny them the power of taking part in Jthe deliberations and decisions of the * Conference . There were trades who had net paid up their levies , because they cone . ' dered they had not been properly treated by the Central Committee , The delegates were present for the r , urpose of having the . matters in dispute fully investi'gated ,, and until such Investigation it was unfair to _exclude them from participation , in the business , in < as much as it would be condemning them unheard , and

    presuming the Central Committee to be right , and these dissenting trades wrong . There , were also other trades who had fallen into arrears iu consequence of bad trade , but who , if not excluded from the Conference , _wsuld _, when belter times returned , resume their payments . Such a rule , it was contended , would be unjust , because it had not been acted upon at any previous Conference , and its adoption now it was believed , would have the effect of immediately causing the secession of several de _^ legates from trades who objected to forwarding their contributions until tbey were satisfied on various matters now in dispute .

    The Ch _aibman said the reason why the _rulo had never been acted upon before was , because it was only passed at the last conference . Previous to that time no stipulated or regular levies were specified in the rules , but the _Association then adopted the resolution , that trades failing to remit levies for four months , should forfeit all claim upon the assistance ofthe Association ; and by the same rule it would appear , that the delegates from that trade should not kike part in tbe proceedings of the Conference until tbe trade was reinstated by payment of its arrears At thie same time there was not the slightest disposition to prevent the fair and dispassionate consideration by the Conference of any complaints which delegates might have to make . After some further discussion the amendment was put , and carried by a large majority .... The Committee was then appointed , and the Conference at half-past six o ' clock adjourned till to-morrow ( Tuesday . )

    Tr / EtDAi , Mat 25 . —The Conference assembled this morning , at nine o ' clock , according to adjournment . T _, S . Duneombe , Esq .,, M . P ., in the chair . , The roll of delegates having been called over , and the minutes of the previous day _^ a sitting confirmed , the standing orders for regulating the . proceedings of the C nferenee wereagried to . Mr Pabeeb reported from the Committee ap ointed to examine and report on the right of certain delegates to vote in Conference . , It appeared that there were only three delegates to whom blue cards , had been issued , thus disqualifying them from .. voting ; these delegates were , Mr Biley , delegate from the plaster * " of Manchester , whichtradehad notfqrwarded their levies , in _consequenceof a disputebetween it and the Central Committee as to the construction to be put upon certain , resolutions pasted at thelast Conference , recommending the Cen tral

    Committee to support the building trade of Manchester , then upon strike ,. The trade claimed a balance from the Central Committee , and wished the whole matter investigated . Mr Taylor , delegate from the plumbers of _Manchester , gave similar reasons ; and Mr Hughes , _de-Isgate from the bricklayers of Manchester , said that his trade objected to pay up their levies . until their average wages were rated at £ 1 weekly , instead of £ 1 10 _»„ the sum fixed by the Central Committee . As soon as this was rectified they ' were ready to clear their arrears . The Committee recommended , that as these matters would at the proper period come , under the consideration of the Conference , the delegates should immediately have white cards , on the condition that they did not vote on the matters at issue between themselves and the . Central Committee , but entitling them to vote on all other business brought before the Conference .

    This report was unanimously adopted , and cards ordered to be given accordingly . The Conference then proceeded to consider the annual report , which was taken paragraph by paragraph , and agreed to without remark , until that part having refer _, ence tothe strike of the Manchester building trades was read , upon which . Mr _Taiiob , of Manchester , said he wished to cerrecta statement that the building trades of Manchester had lost that strike . The great point at issue between the employers and the men was the signing of a document presented by the masters , requiring the men to give up their local and general unions . All the Manchester trades , with tbe exception of the carpenters , were virtually victors in that contest , inasmuch as not one of them , with that exception , had signed that agreement ; their societies were now in existence , and in as independent a position as ever .

    Ur Hcghe 8 , a representative of the bricklayers of Manchester , confirmed this statement as respected his own trade , not one ofthe many hundreds comprised in which had signed the document . Mr Godldin , Secretary to tbe Manchester District Committee * , said the contest was not _virtually decided In favour of the employ ei s . The strike commenced for an advance of wages , bnt ultimately resolved itself into a struggle against the signing ef a document pledging the _m-n to abandon their local and general Unions , which the men succeeded in resisting in every _instunce except the carpenters , and therefore it could not be said that the strike terminated in favour of the employers . MrTATLOR said it would be better if the part having reference to the failure of the strike should be . struck out entirely , as it was calculated to produce a false impression on the public mind as tothe actual results ofthe strike .

    The _CtTAiBJUN said that it was not competent to the Conference to alter the Report , which was that ofthe Central Committee _. and did not bind the Conference to any of its statements . The Conference _mightpass resolutions expressly negativing any portion of the Report at a proper stage of tho business . But tbe Report contained the impressions of the Central Committee on the facts as they were presented to them . With respect to the contradiction that had been given , as to the failure cf the strike , he thought that , looking at the wages part of the question , there could be no doubt but that the statement of the report was correct , while at tbe same time it was mast gratifying to learn that the

    resistance to the document had been successful . To such a document he thought every trade was justified in offering tbe most determined resistance , and that association would also be justified atany time in throwing its whole strength iato such a struggle , even though it should prril its existence in tbe attempt . ( Cheers . ) It was a question of principle , and if the workmen once gave up _therijtht of protecting themselves against aggression , they would be placed entirely at the mercy of the employers . As to tbe erroneous impression wbich it was supposed would be produced , the correction would be made ' as public as tbe statement , and therefore no evil consequences could ensue _. On this understanding the matter dropped .

    Mr Bentlbt , handloom weaver , objected to that part ofthe report referring to the Wilmslow handloom weavers . The number of persons named in tbe report were not actually employed . He complained also that the Central Committee had not acted promptly in tbe matter , or tbe weavers would not have been in their present position . Some of tbe hands employed by the Association had not been reduced at all , while others who had been reduced were at present out of work . Mr _WiuiAHion _. onthepart ofthe Central Committee , said that having been appointed specially to conduct tbis part of the business , he was in a position _ts say Mr Bentley ' _s statements were incorrect , and must have been derived from false information . The statement in the

    report was perfectly correct . But at the same time be was bound to add that the Central Committee wore not able to act so _efficiently as it desired to do , in consequence of not having sufficient capital at its command , At another period of the business he would call the attention of the Conference to tbe necessity for providing larger capital for employing both the handloom weavers and the framework knitteis . He must in conclusion state that he feared tbe delegate from Wilmslow , like too many others , expected the Central Committee to perform impossibilities : it must be recollected that their powers were limited by the funds at their disposal , and the nature of the case they had to deal with . The snbjeet then dropped .

    Another conversation arose on that part of the report referring to the means of putting down the truck system . Mr Dean , of Nottingham , said he wished to ascertain what was tbe moiety of tbe penalty which should be paid on couvictions to the informer . Ho had been engaged in several cases on behalf of the _Associtaion _, in which £ 10 fine had been inflicted , and the magistrate ' s erk had only awarded him £ 3 . Tbe _CffAtBHAN said , he believed there was no specific sum named in the Act , but it was understood generally that one-half went to the informer , MrPcELbad been frequently asked whether the Association was prepared to support Individuals not connected with ! the Association in their attempts to put down this baneful system . It was a question he was unable to answer , and he now put it to the Central Committee as one of great importance 9

    Tbe Chaibhan said , it was a question which the C _« ntr . il Committee could not answer . Its decision must be left to the Conference , and Mr Peel could bring it on at a subsequent period ofthe sitting . Mr Peel said that he weuldgive notice of a motion on the suVjnct . Mr Fobeest , of Cradley , complained that the men in bis district had been much injured by the establishment of the system . But the manner in whieh it was carried on b / the employer rendered it difficult to get at them . The shop was ostensibly kept by the daughter , whose name was over the door .

    Mr Chance , of Cradley , Mid that he was satisfied , from the success that bad already attended their efforts in that particular district , that if similar measures were taken by the trades in other parts of tbe country , equal success m ght bo attained . Thero were instances in which the principal articles of provisions were sold at least 25 uer cent , above tho regular price of other shops , besides being of an inferior quality ; and the trade _wub carried on by masters , who took various means of evading the law . But as he had already stated , they had succeeded in putting it down at Cradley to a considerable extent .

    Mr Wintebs , of Leicester , said that Mr Dean had asked a question as to tho portion of the fine which should go to the informer . In answer to that , he could state that tho magistrates in his locality had always equally divided the penalty . As to the difficulty of getting at tho _truck-masters , the Act distinctly aimed , at putting down the trade , whether carried on dir « ctly or _indirectly . It was only necessary to show that it was

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    compulsory on the part of the workmenVto purchase at certain _shdpB ; and it ' did r . bt matter whether these shops were _csrrted on'iu ' . _} ie uame of wife , daughter , or agent of the master , penalties could be obtained . That was a point wh _' _. ch had been decided over and over again . The real offence was ' compulsory dealing , and wherever that could be pjoved ,. the parties were amenable to the low . ' . ' :. . _¦;' . '¦ _. '' _,-Messrs Taylor , Bayley , and other delegates , having addressed the meeting briefly on this subject , and detailed individual instances in which the traffic was carried on , and productive of great injury to the working man , the subject droppod , with the understanding that it would form a distinct question at a subsequent period . _» ¦

    A somewhat desultory discussion ensued as to the rules which guidefl'the Central Committee In their sup . port of individual- cases . It was asked whether they were prepared to support all Individuals who were discharged on account of the active part they took in the affairs of the Association . ' The Chaibhan said that each case bad hitherto been decided on Its own merits , and for his own part he thoug ht that it ' would be very difficult to lay down any general rule in the ' matter . Mr MAanKi mirier , of Darcy Sever , said he understood that soma money had been advanced to the carpenters of Rochdale . He wished to know under what circumstances that money had been advanced .

    Mr Bosh , ' on the part of the Central Committee , replied that the carpenters of Rochdale struck without having . the sanction , of the ; Central Committee , ' . ' and were also in arrears with their levies , in . consequence of a misunderstanding on the part of their Secretary , as to the rules . They could riot therefore be supported by the Association . But the Central Committee lent them £ 20 , which was quite certain of being repaid . Mr Pkei . said he very much doubted the policy of lending any trade money under any circumstances . If they lent it to some trades in arrears , and refused it to others _, as had been the case , tbe result was dissatisfaction . It would be far better to lay down a rigid rule that _nbassistance could bo given to any other method , than that prescribed by the rules , which distinctly limited it to the trades who hod paid up their subscriptions . Mr Emmett , of Keighley , concurred in this view , arid _thought it was the duty of the Conference to express a decided opinion on this ' subject .

    Mr Chance objected to this view of the matter . It would fetter , the Central Committee , and prevent them from giving timely assistance to many trades , when such assistance might secure all their demands , and retain the body in connection with the Association . ' Mr _Hawkeswobth , of Sheffield , objected entirely to giving assistance bfforehand . to any trade , because he thought it was a very great chance that they ever got the ' r meney back _agoin . Let them first have all the subscriptions paid up , and then give the utmost assistance and support the funds of the Association would afford . He thought tbe Central Committee should have acted strictly in accordance with the rules . If they had done to , the discussion need not have arisen , and the dissatisfaction said to eiist would never have been created .

    The Chaibhan said he thought it would be advisable , before the Conference separated , ' to pass a resolution on the Buhject , distinctly prohibiting the Central Committee from giving assistance by way of loan . They would then have an answer to all trades . that might apply for such assistance / which would be conclusive of the ' matter , and show that they had no discretion in it , but were boundio act imperatively on tho law . Mr Parkinson ,, of Bury , wished to know whether trades were permitted to strike immediately agsinBt any reduction of their wages ! He bad asked tbe qucstion last year , but it appeared had misunderstood the reply . The Chaibhan said he had a distinct answer to the question . No strike whether made against a reductionfor an advance , or . for any other cause whatever—was legal , or could receive the support of the Association unless the subject had previously beeen submitted to , and obtained the sanction of the Central Committee .

    Mr Patten said he saw in the balance sheet a sum of £ 20 lent to the _coarae-Btockingmakers of Manchester . He wished for an explanation of that item . Mr Robson said that the coarse _stockingmskers bad applied to the Central Committee , but before receiving its decision , had struck . Under the circumstances , the Central Committee had thought it their duty to assist them by loan . In doing so , he thought that they hud introduced no new principle . It was no unusual thing for one trade to lend another money in a time of emergency ; and though such loans might not in all instances have been repaid , yet he believed such cases were few in

    comparison with those in which such debts bad been honourably discharged . He did not see why that Association sheuld be precluded from taking that course which events required it . It was indeed , the only course which could at one and the same time enable the Central Committee to afford assistance in really extreme and deserving cases , and preserve the Association frominevi : table ruin , if they were obliged to give assistance to every strike which any trade might choose to make without the previous sanction of the executive . In every case where this rule had been acted upon success had been the result , and he trusted that fact would in future have its due weight on the proceedings of the trades .

    On that part of the report being read having reference to the press , Mr Peel expressed his regret that the working classes were comparatively so apathetic in supporting the papers which gave fair and impartial reports of the pre ccedings of trades' associations . For his own part , as an agent o ' . the Association , he tonsidtnd it to be his duty wherever he went , to induce the publicans to take in those papers . Mr Jacobs said he was happy to fiad in the course of his journeys as agent , tbe provincial press was now beginning to notice the Association and report its meetings . He believed that this was mainly owing to the way in which the Morning Advertiser bad given its valuable columns to reports ofthe proceedings ofthe AssociR . tion ; end he hoped that _ths trades throughout the country would do all iu their power to extend tbe circu _lation of the Momma Advertiser , and of all papers which pursued a similarly impartial course . ( Cheers . )

    Mr Hawkeswobth , of Sheffield , had much pleasure in stating that the local press of Sheffield were now much more disposed to give publicity to the proceedings and views of the tradeB than at any former period . Instances had occurred , within his own knowledge , where neglect on the _partof reporters to attend their meetings , after being properly informed of the same , had been followed by a reprimand from the editor , which secured better attendance subsequently . He quite concurred in tbe sentiments expressed ty the speakers who had preceded bim , as to the necessity and policy of the trades supporting those papers who treated them in a fair and impartial spirit . The trades did not want partisanship on the part of any portion ofthe press . All tbey desired was , that their views and sentiments , the facts of their condition , should find the same publicity , and be equally open to a candid and impartial criticism as those of any other portion ofthe community .

    Mr Pabkeb was gratified to hear what bad fallen from Mr Hawkesworth . Ills remarks were most timely , especially after what had recently transpired in the House of Commons with respect to certain occurrences at that town . He had recently visited Sheffield , and made special inquiries into the circumstances attending the outrages and destruction of property which had unfortunately occurred in that town , and which had been saddled upon the trades , and he could positively state , as tbe result of that investigation , that these violent and deplorable _occurrences were not in the slightest degree conntcted with any trades' union whatever . Somo objections he found existed among portions of the working men against one paper which fully reported the proceedings of this Association because it was a Chartist

    paper . For his own part he did not care what the political views of any journal might be . So long as it did justice to the trades he would support it and endeavour to make others do so . If the Times did so he would accord it the same credit and support _* as the Not them Star . The trades , as a body , disclaimed all politics . They took their stand on principles which no doubt had a certain connexion with what were called politics , but they desired to keep clear of all mere party politics , as such , and confine themselves simply to the social aud industrial improvement of their order . ( Cheers . ) The Chaibhan expressed his pleasure at the discussion that had taken place in Parliament ofl the subject

    of the Sheffield trades , and tbe convictions of MrOvereitd . When MrS . Wortley exhibited tho largo orange . coloured placard emanating from that association , and which , he believed , was issued by Mr Parker , it was no doubt done with the intention of prejudicing the House of Commons against the Association . So far from doing that , bowever , it had tbe contrary effect ; it had given him an opportunity of stating the real objects of the Association and disabusing tho minds of members of the _prejudices which erroneous or imperfect information bad created . He thought that in fact they were deeply indebted to Mr Wortley , and that they should give him a vote of thanks for making tbe Association so well known—( cheers . )

    The portion of the report relating to the services of Mr Duncombo , as President of tbe Association , was greeted with repeated and hearty cheers . Mr Robson said that he would not allow that opportunity to pass without making one or two remarks as to the unremitting attention Mr Duneombe had paid to the business of the Association , and the great advantages they had derived in _consequence , Tho Hon , Chairman did not alone tako the chair for a day or two , at such meetings as that , merely to get popularity , as Borne gentlemen of his order were in thohabit of doing , but there was not a day that ho did not call at the office of the Association in London , and if there _wes any business to be done immediately took bis seat , and attended to it with the utmost patience and impartiality . In his presence ho would not venture to say uwre , but a sense of duty prevented him from saying less ( loud cheers . )

    Mr Duncombe briefly expressed his thanks , and said that having now gono through the report , th _* question ho had to put was , that tho report be now received and adopted . Tho motion was put , aud carried by acclamation , Mr James , of London , said he found that the trades of Birmtnghani kttew very little ofthe existence and objects of that Association , and ho thought that some means should be taken to mako them acquainted with " tli . > subject . Mr Robson said they did not know where the trades wero in tho habit of meeting , so that thpy could not get at them ; the Central Committee would , however , bs most

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    happy to aid In any measure which wou _\< t _cawy out the object suggested by Mr James . ' The Conference then adjourned at one o'clock , till _halfpasttwoi - , > . _} ,,- : ¦ ¦ ¦' _-..: ¦ ¦> : ¦ _.-. ; ,-* " . ' ¦ APTEBNOON SITTINO . . ; On the reassembling of tbe Conference , the next _huslness on the paper , viz ,, " the amendment of rules , '' proceeded witb , Mr GontDEN , secretary of the Manchester District Committee , said that in bringing forward the alterations which stood in his name he was merely acting as tbe servant of the Manchester District Committee . Tbe first amendment he should move was that in the rule headed ' Annual Conference , " the words s" or Central Committee "should be expunged , _tlics taking from the Central Committee the discretionary power which the laws at present vested in them , from a fear that it might bo used capriciously . . ..: ¦• '

    Mr Robson said he objected to the amendment , bccause it might be productive of great inconvenience if the place of meeting was'fixed by the previous Conference , and im perative upon them to meet in that town , no matter what circumstances might _ariie in the meantime . For instance , suppose the Conference was appointed to meet in Birmingham , and that such an excite- ? state of public feeling as produced the "Bull-ring riots " occurred in the meantime , would it be either prudent or judicious to hold the annual meeting in the _inidst of such circumstances ? For his own part , he thought is was a discrotiflnary power which the Central _Committee were in no danger of abusing , while its deprivation might be productive of serious inconvenience . : ¦ ¦• :

    Mr Jacobs thought that the rule should be altered if it would have tbe slightest tendency in its present shape to prevent a cordiatco . operation between the Manchester Distrlctand the Central Committee . As to the objection about the " _Bull-rlng riots , " he considered it a mere bugbear , and that if such a circumstance 6 hould occur the Conference might meet in Birmingham and adjourn immediately afterwards to some other place . After a short discussion the amendment was negatived . Mr Gooiden then moved the following araendmenton the rule "Special Sessions , " Instead of the following

    clause : — " In case the Central Committee neglect to call ' such special' meeting on such requisition the _requisitionists shall have power to call it themselves ;' to alter , to read as follows— " The Central Committee shall call such special session on such requisition ;" and " " That such special session be held in such town , & c , as the previous conference was held . " The reason why he proposed this was , that having applied to the Central Committee for a special session , which was refused by them , tbey did not feel It necessary at that time to proceed further , but agreed to wait until the present conference , when the subject could be fairly discussed .

    ' Mr Robson said he had no objection , as an individual member of the Central Committee , to agree to the first amendment , giving the requisitionists power to call the special meetings themselves ; but to the latter portion he thought there was a very tangible objection . The amendment ' was' proposed by the Manchester trades , among whom considerable feeling existed at the time against the decisions of the . Central Committee . Under such circumstances , Manchester would have been the very worst town to hold the special conference in ; and yet . had the application been acceded in the case referred to by Mr _Goulden , Manchester , as being the town in which the last Conference waB held , would have been the place for _holding that special meeting . In fact , all the reasons that applied to the amendment just negatived , applied to this portion of tbe second amendment also .

    Mr _Humpbbies , of the Potteries , concurred in Mr Rob 3 on ' s views of the amendment , but suggested tbatthe difficulty with respect to _tfcfe last clause of the amendment might be met by inserting , that ' the conference should be held in some central part of England . . Mr Williahbon thought that if the Conference had confidence enough in any body of men to entrust them with the munagcraent of the Association , they ought not to _deprite them of the discretionary power at present confided to them in this respect . Mr Peel said he did not wish to impugn the motives or the honour of any member of the Central Committee ; but at the same time he thought that the working classes were wise , and at all times justified in depriving any committees of all discretionary powers which might by possibility be abused .

    The Chaibhan said the question was a most important one . It waB quite possible that if they took the power from the Central Committee of deciding whether a Special Session should be held or not , and the question left in the bands of the requisitionists , that they would only increase their present difficulties . They must remember that many letters from the low paid trades alretdy complained that it was difticult for them to send delegates to one conference in a year . How much more difficult for them to send to two ? And how easy it would be for a certain section of the Association to call a packed conference which might exclude all these trades from their deliberations .

    Mr Peel thought tbe question of expense should not be a paramount question . At present the high priced trades were Very much dissatisfied with what they consider _, d the unfair leaning of the Central Committee in favour of the low paid trades , and , in consequence , the number of members in the Manchester district had very much diminished . Even if the low paid trades consulted their own interests , they would see that , by attaching the high paid trades to the Association , tbey were most surely advancing their own interests by increasing the income and the _nuiribers of tha Association . Mr WnwAMSON wished to know who were to pay th e expenses of these extra-conferences—whether it was to be met by the trades themselves , or by a general fund . He thought that these expenses should ba carefully looked to , and that before they agreed to such a resolution , they should define exactly the quarter from which such expenses were to be defrayed .

    Mr Jacobs said the question of expense was notbeforo the Conference ; but merely whether special sessions should be held , and the manner in which they should be called . That such conferences might be necessary must be conceded by every member ; and as to the question of who should call them , be would say that the requisition should be one signed by a majority of the paying trades of the association , and any special conference so called would , he believed , not only give general satisfaction , but be a sufficient guarantee against caprice or abuse of powcrby the Central Committee . Mr Bentlei thought , instead ofthe delegates , it should be by a majority of the members . He thought that would be tbe most satisfactory mode , inasmuch as the low-paid trades would then be placed on nn equality with the high » r-priced trades .

    Mr J . _Tailob was of opinion that the alteration of the rule , by taking away the discretionary power of tbe Central Committee , would at the same time takeaway a responsibility which must be anxiously felt by them . As to the suggestion , that a special conference should be called by a majority of the paying members , instead of the delegates , he thought tbe same object would bo attained by havinc the nwjority of delegates , who would of courserepresent the majoi ity of the paying trades . Mr Bebbt _,. of Forrington , was of opinion that the original law was best _calculated to meet all the requirements ofthe executive and the members of the Association .

    Mr Hawkeswobth , at some length , supported the lame view of tbe subject . To take the discretionary power from the executive , was entirely to annihilate their power in the matter , and yet they were the most competent parties to judge upou it . At the same time the rule was just to the _ri _qulsitionists , because it gave them the power , if they thought proper , upon the refusal of the Central Committee , to call a special conference themselves . He hadformerly been a determined opponent of that Association " , but having now given its rules and constitu'ion a careful consideration , he bad been led to the conclusion that they were generally well calculated to promote tbe great objects in view . It was quite

    poskible that the Ctntral Committee might err , but it was better thatiu the exercise of their discretionary powers they should occasionally make a mistake , than that they should be prevented from acting at all , or coerced into a course of action _oppo . _'cd to their _conscientieus convictiens , aud _calculated , in _theta estimation , to injure the Association . He _obj-rcted altogether to any alteration in the rule , and believed that in the majority of cases a deputation from requisitionists , or from a complaining trade , to the Central Committee , would , ia almost all cases , _titherrender a special conference _unnecessury , or lead the executive to acquiesce in their ideas as to the time and place of such meetings . He moved that the rule stand as at present .

    Mr _Saundebb , of Maidstone , could bear out the views of the _lant speaker as to the efficacy of personal deputations to tho Central Committee . In several cases this had been done with reference to his own trade , and in every instance , with ( he most satisfactory results . Mr Diamond thought the suggestion of Mr Bentlcy _, to appeal tothe trades in such cases , was , under all the circumstances , the best course to pursue , Mr Winters , of _Leicester , said thatMr Peel had stated the Central Committee had paid more attention to the low-priced _trBdcs than to the high-priced ones . He found that tbe number of cases in which the _Csntral Committee had inttr _- cred in the high-priced trades was seven , the number _oflow-psid trades was only three . There might have b ' . en greater cause among the one than the other , but the fact shewed that the high-priced trades had had a fair share of the benefits of the Association ,

    Mr Goulden replied , and being put to the conference , the Chairman declared the proposed amendment to bo lost by a majority of 40 to 22 , and the rulo was consc . quently declared to stand as at present . The next amendment was upon the rule relative to notices of motion " to be three months , " instead of " six months . " Mr GotanEN , in supporting this motion , said he _considered six months was too long , and precluded tbe Association from taking advantage of much valuable experience which might bo gained in the meantime . Mr Hawkeswobth seconded tho motion , which ap . pjared to him to be a most judicious amendment on the existing laws . Messrs Chance , Diamond , and Jacobs briefly spoke ou the subject , and the motion , on being put , was declared to be carried .

    Mr Diamond thought that two months was quite sufficient , and therefore moved the omission ofthe words " three months" and the insirtion of two months ; stud that instead ofthe concurrence of _two-tliirds of the Con . _fcrencc being _newssavy to make such alterations valid , it should bo by a Imro majority . A short discussion ensued , and on the question being put , the Chairman declared the motion was lost by n

    Conference Of..Tiie Nationa L,'Asso-..^-...

    majority of 52 to 6 , and that the _rult would _stmd he forth three months instead of six , as proposed _hv _' u * Goulden . y *«• Mr Robbok moved the next amendment . By the sent rule , the members of the Ceritral Comrnitt , Pf 8 , eligible to be elected as delegates ; he wished to pre *" that , and that they should simply attend the Confer ?" ' as the servants of the Conference ; and therefore mo "" * that the present rule be omitted , and the follonin / h * inserted . " The Central Committee shall not b _« eli _^ bl to be elected as Delegates to Conference , but shall atten _] in tbeir capacity of the Executive Committee of the a .-ciation . " Tbe motion waB unanimously agreed to . Mr Godlden moved that the returns of delf «« . should be made U days previous to _Whit-Mondnyint . _,, ! of 7 days , as in the present rules . ' " The motion was agreed to .

    Mr Robson then moved the omission of rules ir - , 19 , and the insertion of the following instead : — "tII Comwitteo to meet from dny to day for the _transaction ofthe business of the Association j and further , that n , number of thf Committee be 5 instead of 11 . " The reat meaning ofthe motion was , that they should bare j p _.- manent sitting Committee , by which means , instead 0 { being as at present limited to the members residing in London , they might elect any member ofthe _Associg . tion whomig ' _tt appear qualified for the office . It _WaJ absolutely necessary that the Association should he cog , ducted by a permanent executive , ond by widening the choice of members they had a better chance of _securing efficiency . At a subsequent period he would mote a »

    commendation to the Board of Directors ofthe _Ansocia , tion for the Employment of Labour to make as _farj » possible tbe management of the two Associations idea , tical . They were so closely connected , that it was in , portant _. if possible , the management of the two should be vested in the same hands . By adopting the coursa he recommended they would be enabled to do so , and , at tbe same time , to attend promptly to the cases of dispute requiring mediation or superintendence in the _provinces , He was not by any means wedded to the exact number he had named ; but he considered the adoption of the alteration on principle of the greatest importance to the Association . By this means they would secure that continuity and harmony of action between the two Associations which were of such vital importance .

    Mr Williahbon agreed in the principle proposed by Mr Robson , but thought the number was too small ; the quorum of three might be liable to abuse , _nndthoCen . tral Committee might , in a press of business , find itself unablo to _overtake the business before it . He trusted , therefore , that they would increase the number to seven , and that the quorum should be five . As to the addi . tional expense which might be incurred by the adoption , he thought it would be abundantly compensated b y the increased power a ' t the disposal of the Association . Mr Pabeeb was quite satisfied that a permanent executive was absolutely necessary , and further , that theincrease of numbers from five to seven was a judicious one , because two of the seven might be sent forth as . missionaries , and communicate more directly and nccu . ratelythe views and intentions of tbe Central Committee to the trades in the provinces than by the employment of mere casual lecturers , or parties who _| bad only occasional instructions from the central office .

    . TbeCHAiBUAN said the question before the Conference was a most important one , and involved an entire alteration of tbe constitution of tbe governing body . It _>< ould be better that the question should be taken as one of principle , aud that the Conference should in the first place decide whether it would have a permanent executive or not ; they could afterwards , if they agreed to that , settle the number of that committee . He _suggested , therefore , that they take . the questions in tbe following shape : — " That the executive shall for the future be a permanent body , to meet from doy to day for the trans _, action of business , and to be _bma-fidetnembers ot a Trade Society . " Mr Hawkeswobth thought that the missionaries and lecturers ofthe Association should be added to tbe executive and considered as part of the paid members of that body . .. .. . .. .

    Mr ClouchAN , Holytown , was most anxious to caution the Conference against entrusting any of the governing power of the Association to the lecturers . He had seen too many evils arise from such a source , not to give his most determined opposition to such a proposition . The Miners'Association had at one time fifty . four . lecturers , they were the pest of every Conference they attended , and insisted upon having all their own way , but they forgot to carry the feelings of the paying members along with them , and the consequence was , that the Association fell to pieces . He bad no wish to disparage tbe _character and _uiility of lecturers : they were most useful , and had an important duty to perform ; but what he wished to see was , that they should be kept in their own sphere o aetion .

    Messrs Jacobs and Peel expressed themselves against the adoption of such an invidious distinction as that laid down by the last speaker . It was , in fact , taking advantage of the fact that a m _» n was put iu a position to acquire more extensive and practical information to deprive bim ofthe ordinary privileges of citizenship . Mr Diamond said he was instructed to move that the 18 th rule remain as it is , and that the members of the Central Committeebe delegates from trades paying to the funds of the Association . He cautioned the Conference against adopting the principle of a permanent executive , which might lead to great abuse . For hii own part , he thought it was something like creating a close corporation , if they elected the same individuals year af . er year to the management . Mr Saondebs , of Maidstone , feared that the proposed alterations would do away with the present _provincial members of the executive—a change which he feared would be attended by very injurious results .

    Mr Hughes , of Manchester , said that if even the alter _, ationwas carried , as proposed , the elections would have to be made out of tbe trades of London , and he was also of opinion that the change , if carried , would tend to supersede tbe District Committees , who were , he believed , of essential service to the Association . Upon tbe fullest consideration , he felt bound to vote against the creation of a Permanent Committee . After some further discussion , the motions before the chair were withdrawn , and the following resolution was unanimously agreed to : — " It is the opinion of this

    Conference that rules 18 and 19 require am > ndmeut _, and that the executive should in future be a permanent body , to meet from day to day for the transaction of businessto be bona fide members of a trade Society in connection with the Kation . il Association , and that a Select Committeebe appointed to draw up a rule In conformity with the proposed change ; to settle the number of tbe Central Committee ; the quorum necessary for the transaction ot business ; and whether provincial _members sbnll form any part of the Central Committee ; and so report their opinion in the morning . "

    Messrs Parker , Goulden , Robson , Hawkesirorth , Forsythe , Humphries , Winters , Peel , and Ryley were appointed a Committeo for this purpose , with instructions to report to-morrow morning . Mr James , , of London , said he rose to bring a matter of somo moment before the Conference , in accordance with instructions he had received , not only from the trade he represented , but from the broad silkweavers and the ch . iirraakcrs and enrrers , that they should take measures for agitating the trades of Birmingham , cither by taking steps to find out the meeting places of the trades , or by issuing placards , calling a public meeting , with a view of making known the . _existence _, principles , and objects of the Association . He would , therefore , move tlmt u committee be appointed to adopt measures for agitating the trades of Birmingham by means of public meetings aad deputations for the purposes he had named .

    Several Delegates expressed their concurrence in this step , and their belief that much good would result fromthe adoption of such a course . The Cuaibman said he thought there could not be any objection to members of that Conference visiting tbe trades and explaining the subject to them , but he _thought there were great difficulties in the way of a public meeting . For his own part he thought that having assembled there as a Conference for their own convenience , they were by no muans justified iu calling any such meetings , li the trades had moved themselves * and called a meeting , inviting the Conference to attend , it would be a very different matter , but he certainly could not concur in the _callins of a meeting by the _Conference which he thought would be s most improper interference on their part .

    Mr Hawkeswobth concurred in these _vic-w » . There could be no objection to waiting individually upon tbe trades at their respective places of meeting , but it would be most unwise to call a public meeting in the present position of the Conference with respect to tbe trades of Birmingham . The motion , on being put , im agreed to , A Com . mittee was appointed , and the Conference _adjourned at a quarter past six o ' clock , Wednesday , Mat 28 . —The Chairman t » ok his seat this morning at nine o ' clock , and the roll h _& vin _» _boeri called , and the minutes of the previous daj ' s _siUing confirmed , Mr Pabkeb brought up the Report of the Committee appointed yesterday to frame rules by which the _governing body could bo converted into a permanent _executive . The Committeo recommended that the 19 th rule be expunged , and that , the following be substituted lor the 18 th rule : —

    " That the Central Committee _becompossd of a president and seven olh * r members , the President shall he elected by the Conference , without reference to hi _> connection with the Association , but the other sevcu must be payable members for six months previous to a trade society iu connection with the Association ; an < l that tbe Committee meet from day to day for the trnnv" tion W general business , five to form a quorum , the chairnwn to have a casting vote in case of equality of votes on the part of the remainder of the Committee , That in e : ue ofthe resignation or demise of any member of the Centra ) Committee , the ne . t iu rotation en tho Cont ' erenc * list shall he elected to fill up the vacancy . "

    Tho Committee « ere of opinion tbatthe _adep'ion of these rules would secure unanimity , prevent invidious _distiuctions , give a _t ; u ; : rautee that the individuals ap ' pointed to serve on the Committee were impressed -. vita the importance and utility of the _Association . _•'•» '' l ' vent tho necessity of appointing a _Correspoudii'b' _^ t > cr _?' tary , as ouo of tho seven members might discharge this duty . Tho report was received , and gave rise to a lo » R an desultory _discussiou , in which great _contrariety of _optuion was _expressed by the various delegates who addressed the Conference , but as the arguments were gen : rally of a local aad technical character , itis unnecessary

    6 *Tm W/Vuthiti ^ S Tar May 20, 1847 -

    6 _* _TM w / _vuTHiti _^ S TAR May 20 , 1847 -

• Citation
  • Northern Star (1837-1852), May 29, 1847, page 6, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns3_29051847/page/6/