A NEED FOR ACTION

The constantly recurring strikes in the ship-yards of the Atlantic seaboard present serious obstacles to our naval program. The demand for ships has never been greater than now. Figures just made public demonstrate that the U boat has outrun the combined efforts of English and American ship-yards by three to one. New ships in vastly increased quantities must be had if this year is to see the tide turn. Yet the unpatriotic action of a large part of our workers at the present time threatens this all-important artery of our war machine. Whether walkouts have been inspired by enemy propaganda or are the result of petty unionist leaders' activity, they offer a serious indictment against labor.

It is time that issues be squarely faced. Mere resolutions of loyalty cannot conceal the selfish interest of the war-workers' strike. In dealing with this problem the Government cannot afford to pussy-foot. Complete control of our ship-yards may be the answer. It may even be necessary to utilize the draft to secure a full working force for each war industry. Men in Uncle Sam's khaki drawing $30 a month may find military discipline sufficient incentive to keep on the job.

Shipbuilders engaged in industry essential to the war's prosecution must learn that laying down their work to bleed the Government for their own selfish benefit is little short of treason. No punishment is too severe for such men. If they cannot freely put forth their best, they may be met by a stern curtailment of their liberty. This much is certain, the time for barter with unionism has long passed.