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    intention to reduce Wages , if the men did not compel on ;„ or two other emfel-jyers to piy the same pricet ai they did . The HJ&VtBA Committee thought it better ' . nat tfce men shooldtoave . an advance than mist p . reduction . They , thefeSore , npoa application , sent a . deputation to Oxfdrd . '&ho found the statement made to the Central Comii&fee correct . As soon as tht low-pajing employers fdtthdXhe Central Committee in earnest at to getting ' tfieJr men at work unless they raised thei * prices * , they « o&eded the required advance . ' « Stockfoet Blsichers . — . $ he hanih employed bj 't » e firm were offered a redaction of 1 ^ P « eent . The Central Committee advised Sue legal notice to be given 'Shatxhey would l «» eath&sTedttcti <* waspersevered in . * nd t > continue woASnfc ander protest . Previous to the « pirationof the notice , a memberxrf the Central Committee was seat to Stoefeport , and after a long interview the employer agreed to give tbe « riginal prices .

    " FEMAK SltS r « WBB-I « OIC WeBATO , MaKCSESTEB . Similar results a ttended the mediation of the Central Committee in the case of a reduction , last April , in this trade . " In all these cases the 'Central Committee succeeded by mediation < mly , or by fee masters having -ascertained they were miking preparations for employing the different parties . In the follcwing casts , the operatives were withdrawn , and set to'work by the Association , through the medicm of the 'Association for the Employment of Industry .

    "SSK&E WSA-VEBS 'OF CoLUJHPMK .-JThis body complained to the Central Committee that'ihree years ag « their employer induced them to forego a portion of their wages , in consideration of which he would find drivers , shnt& < =, oil , and other necessaries for their work ; irtrich agreenrent , " after having been acted upon for tome time , he Violated , and demanded that the sen ehorild find there articles themselves , an alteration which ires-equivalent to a reduction of is / id , to 2 s . per week from their already scanty earnings . They applied for these extras , bat were refused ; trad having therecpro struck , they were set to work ty the Association .

    - "DttFtStD'SiLK Giovers . —3 n September last , this body entered into a strike withoct the sanction of'the Central Committee , consequently precluding their being « upprftedbythe Association . 'When the strike closed , the employers discharged fotrr men on account Of the active part they had taken , who were immediately employed , and are still at work , for the Association . " Ete akd Cbadley Natcmkebs . —The men were employed in this case as the onl y means of preventing their submission to a serious reduction in prices . "Nottingham Fbauc ^ oue Ksittem . —In -several cases of opprestitn in this trade the Central Committee "hare interfered and employed the men .

    "WitHstow Hand-Look Weavebs . —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 his hands are employed by the Association . ' "LoKDoff Tur Flats 'Woskees . —An employer near Xeicester-sqnare reduced the price for making railway lamps . Upon being waited upon , he said he could not afford more than he offered . The Central Cummittee not being able to prevail upon him to withdraw the reduction , employed the men "In addition to these trade cases , many individual instances of oppression-have occurred , in which the Central Committee have deemed it to be their duty to extend support and assistance in this way .

    "There are at present employed by the Association for the Employment of labour the following trades and cumbers of persons '—13 Frame-work taiitters at Nottiaghsm 1 ditto Daybrook 5 ditto Sutton in Ashfield 8 Glove-makers Drffield 16 Serge-weavers Collumptea 32 Hand-loom-weavera "Wilmslow 12 Tuck sock haaSs Thnrmaston 6 ditto Oadby 27 Shoemaker ! * London 1 Damask-weaver ' Wigan 2 Tin-plate-workers London -122 Hen .

    "In accordance with -the resolutions passed at last ^ Conference , and to enable the sister Association to carry -out this part of the plan , the Central Committee took up " 500 £ 5 shares , upon which they hare during the year paid £ 1 each , amounting to a total of £ 2 , 400 thus in-Tested . Besides the immbere they employed , there are now twenty men receiving pay according to the rule , in consequence of the Association not being in a position , ether from the nature of their occupation or other causes , to set them to work . " Manchester BcitDiNC Tsades . —The only case in which the Association can be said to have experienced painful difficulties was that of the Building Trades of Manchester . After an expenditure of £ 408 19 s . lid ., besides a large sum b y these trades themselves , that strike terminated as too many have done before it This

    failure , however , so far from throwing any discredit -upon the Association , atdits by contrast to prove its ¦ valae and efficiency . The Association had nothing -whatever to do either with the strike at its commencejnent , or its management during its continuance . It was only at the close of a protracted and severe struggle , and when the contest was virtually decided in favour ef the employers , that the Conference of last year , sympathisinsr with the determined and intrepid conduct which iiaa been mamtested by the building trades in defence of their rights , aad anxious to assist them , agreed to reso Iationsby which these trades were recommended to the considerationand support of the Central Committee , who , acting upon the sp'rit of theserecommendations , not only tooksteps to bring the pecuniary resoarces of the association to their aid . but borrowed moneyon the faith of these

    resources for that purpose . That assistance , however , was not sufficient to avert the unfortunate termination of the struggle . It is deeply to be regretted , slso , that this untoward fffair caused a misunderstanding between the Central Committee and the Manchester District Committee , which was a source of much anxiety and pain to the Central Committee . They acted strictiy on the laws of the Association in the case , but the District Committee took 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 questiop , dut declined doing so ; they , however , summoned a special meeting of the Central Committee , including the

    provincial members , at which meeting , after hearing Mr Peel on behalf of the Manchester District Committee , and giving the subject the fullest consideration , the provineial membera came to the resolatura that the London members had dene their dnty 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 Bedditch Needlemahers . The men 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 , and solicited assistance . The Central Committee sent a deputation to Bedditch , whoreported there was every chance of success if the Central Committee would 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 . Itmuat , however , be specially noted that in this , as in the Man-Chester case , the Central Committee were not consulted at the commencement of the strike ; they had no chance Of mediating between the parties before It took place ; they had nothing to do with Us management , and they did no ^ as in other cases , bring the weU-prepared and concentrated energies of the Association to bear upon it . So that it cannot be considered as impugning , in the slightest degree , the efficacy oftbeprinciple which , under the direction of the Central-Committee , has proved so uniforml y unsuccessful .

    "On the whole , the conclusion which may fairly be derived from the preceding summary of the principal cases in which the Central Committee have interfered is , that wherever the principle of the Association has "been fairly carried out , it has invariably proved successfid , and where a failure has taken place it has been owing to a neglect af 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 of the Association . " The two cases in which the Association expended the largest sum of money with the 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 so assisted has much exceedad the cost of the victories in their reBpeetive cases .

    "Tkcoc System . —Deeply sensible of the effects of this pernicious system , the Central Committee have made every effort to put it down . Their own conviction is , that no method can be so effectual as that of providing employment for the men who may be discharged for giving evidence against those masters who infringe the law . This has been done in all cases of this description which have come before the Central Committee , and they believe that if this fact become * generally known it would embolden the sufferers from this unlawful and vicious traffic to make known theinjustice of which they are the victims , while the truck masters , taught a whole , some 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 Association . If it is properly supported in the attempt to put down this crying evil , general success would be inevitahle .

    "Emkothekt or Individuals . —In several instances individuals have been set to work who have been discharged in consequence of taking part in the proceedings of the Association . This is the most effective way of encouraging an independent spirit among the men , and of showing the employers that they have no longer the power to starve or ruin the individual who asserts his privilege of freespeech and free action in defence Cf his rights and those of his fellow-workmen . New Office foe the Associatwn .-Iu the course of the year , the largdy-xnereased and increasing opera ftons . compdledthB Central Committee to look out fo

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    mote comuicuiwi F ^ mises In which to truuact the buu « I ness of In * Association with the requtstoj fecilltisi . The I Board of Directors of the Association for the Employment I of Labour bavetakeu a lease of my eligible premises at 11 . Tottenham-courUroad , where the whole of the bas inctsof the two Associations Is now concentrated , and that of this Association contacted under the superiutjndence of the Central Committee . Mr Bttfell , one of I tb » members of th « Committee , having resigned his seat a' the Board , fte Central Committee , in accordance with ihe powers vested in them by the constitution , elected Mr Mayne , another of&e Carpenter 8 Melegates , tofiUtbe vaeancy until a new election by the present 'Conference . " PETiTiossto PiniAMEST ^ -. TheCentralTiommUtee have during the year presented petitions to Parliamen t against Use Truck S ystem , in favour of the Ten Hours Bill , and praying for a just and impartial system of Nafonal Education , instead of the partial and imperfect scheme-of the ^ Government .

    "IncoSe and Expendiiorb . —The total amocnt of levies and subscriptions received from June , 1816 , to the end of April , 1847 , was £ 4 , *» Ks . « £ d . The expenditure for management , including salaries and travelling "ipenses -of missionaries , snd " Ceatral Committee , expeuses-of deputations to meditate in cases of dispute , Secretary ' s salary , stationery , rent , &c , during the sane period , amounted to IBB Ifis . Hid . Two thousand po : nds , as has been already stated , was inwsted with tfee s ater Association ; the balance remains in the hands « f i < -e banker and treasurer . ¦ . - 111 Future Pouci . —Having as briefly as was consistent with the nature of tfee business given an outline of the proceedings of the past year , the ^ Central Comirittee

    •) eem it to be their < iaty to say a few wordB upon matters connected with the future policy of the Association ; They offer these rmarksisot in the spirit of dictation , but simply as tfce Tesuh « f their MGperience . whScb they would not be ddag thefe duty to the Association were they to withhold ftomtts knowledge and consideration it will be observed by the business paper that several alterations are proposed in the laws . The Central Committee are aware of the injury « feich is frequently done in Associations of this description by hasty and ill-conaidered lejislatUm , « Hd needless changeB . " They-drprecate all such legislation aud alteration , being fully convinced that , in the majority of cases , when a plan has been carefully matered b y experienced minds , as the consti .

    tutioaot this Association undoubtedly was , subsequent attempts to amend it run great risk ef impairing , if not destroying , its efficiency . ( Continuity and steadiness of action are indispensable < pre-requi 6 ites 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 , with a view to make them fit into the other parts of the structure in a harmonious manner . In this spirit the alterations are brought forward . They principally relate to one point , but that is an important one : — . • .

    "The CoNsirroxioK of the Governing Bout . —The events of the past year have demonstrated that it Is utterly impossible for the Central Committee , as originally constituted , to conduct the business of this great and growing association . It appears that the tiine has come when a permanent directory must become part of the muchiaery of the Association , recognised by the Conference , and legalised by tha constitution . The Central Committee for the past year trust that the events of which they have given a brief summary will be sufficient ground for an act of indemnity from Conference for having been , in faet , forced in that position . They leave the question in the bands of Conference , confident that it will receive what it deserves—a full and impartial consideration . . ¦¦ ¦

    - " UmoN Between thb Two A 6 Iocutiok 8 . —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 and 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 of the Association during the short time it has been in existence is full of promise for the future , if a spirit of impartiality , reason , aad brotherly kindness , pervades our deliberations and animates our actions . We have , almost at the very outset , achieved triumphs , which even the most sanguine could nothave anticipated at this sariy 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 awell matured and firmly consolidated organization , directed by men enlightened by the experience arising from past practice , and bringing all their powers to bear upon its succesa ! " It would be unjust to close this report without making allusion to two causes which hav « materially contributed to produce the results which the Central Committee have had so much pleasure in recording . The one is theactof kindness of the proprietor of the Northern Star , in gratuitously setting apart weekly , several columns of

    his paper to reports of the proceedings of the Association , and to the insertion of such other documents as the Central Committee find necessary to make public . The frank generosity with which this most valuable boon was conferred and has been continued , will , the Central Committee are confident , be appreciated as it deserves by every member of the Association . To the editor of the Jforniiiff Advertiser , the Association is also deeply indebtedfor the frequent and impartial notices of the Association which have appeared in the columns of that journal , and for the attention and space which it gives to all matters affecting the interests of the induBtrious classee . Other portions of the press have as yet but sparingly noticed the Aisociation ; but thereis no donbt that asit progresses , and its really cong ' . rvative 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 invaluable services of the honourable and highly respected President of the Association , T . S . Duncombe , 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 minutiiB connected with the Association ; to his great talents as a man of business , hU long experience of public life , and , above all , his lofty aad disinterested patriotism , the Association would never have reached its present position ; « r achieved those triumphs which have been no proudly and gratefully enumerated . So long as the Association is favoured by having Mr Duouombe 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 « f society , that nothing illegal , unconstitutional , or unjust , will ever be attempted by tht 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 andprivileges of others . Long may it be hououred 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 sonshavfc universall y adopted as their champion . .... " By order ofthe Committee , " Thomas Babeat , Secretory . '

    The reading of thb report was frequently interrupted by cheers , and its conclusion was greeted with loud applause . Mr Patter , of Manchester , said before proceeding to any other business , there was a matter of great importance to which he wished to call the attention of tnecqn . f .-reuce . He found that there were twocolours of ticket * of admission delivered to delegates , one blue and another white . He wished to know the cause of that difference , and whether the delegates were considered to hold different privileges indicated by the colour of the card !

    Mr Robson , on the part 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 , but from a desire to " direct its attention to the matter . The delegates holding white cards repre . sented 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 Committee that the latter delegates should have the power of speaking on every question that might come before the conference , but that they should not 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 months in arrears of levies shall vote at the present conference , but it is competent to s « ch delegates to speak upon all questions . He considered that it was absolutely essential that none but those trades who had contributed to the fnnds should vote in their disposal or on money questions generally . '¦ Mr Jenkins seconded the motion . Mr Pabeee moved as an amendment , that a committee of five be now appointed , to inquire into the eligibility of those in possession of blue cards to rote on matters connected with this conference , and report thereon to the conference .

    The amendment was seconded b y Mr Peel . An animated and lengthened discussion ensued on this motion and amendment , in which Messrs Diamond , Uobson , Claughan , Berry , Emmett , S . Taylor , Uawkesnonh , Dean , Forsyth , and Green , supported the motion , on the grouudthatit was unjust to the trades who had acted in accordance with the rules , and paid up their subscri ptions , to allow tho 6 e who had not done so to act in conference , as if they hadfullilled tho conditions of memberships . There must be a test by which they could distinguish between lhose who were members and those

    who were not , and it was the usual method adopted in all societies to take the payment of subscriptions as that test . What inducement could they ottwrwise hold out to the trades to forward their subscri ptions , if they knew that they would be permitted to sit at conference aud take part in all tho business of tho Association , whether they contributed to tho -pecuniary support ofthe Association or not « In no local trades ' union would parties be permltM to tnke part In the business , on any pretence , who Imd uol qualified themselves b y regular payments .

    Meisr « J ' utten , J « wm Jacobs , Chanee , Reilly , Isherwood , Ualley , 1 ' eucock , and Taylor , opposed the motion , because the Committee had issued precepts b y which all

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    the parties then present had been summoned to that meeting , and it would tmmoit unjuit ^ fter bringing them ¦ suoh a distance , to deny them the power of taking part in [ the deliberations and decisions of ^ Conference . There were trades who bad not paid up their levies , •«! - came they considered they had not been properly treated by the Central Committee . The delegates were present for the , purpose of having the matters in dispute fully investigated , and until such investigation it ' w as unfair to exclude them from participation in the business , inas much as it would be condemning them unheard , and

    presuming the Central Committee to bo right , and these dissenting trades wrong . There were also other trades who bad fatten into arrears inconsequence of bad trade , but who , if not excluded from the Conference , w « uld | when better times returned , resume their payments ' . Such a rale , it was contended , would be unjust , because it had w > t been acted upon at any previous Conference , and its adoption now , it was believed , would have the effiret-of immediately « M « ing the secession of several delegates from trades « too objected to forwarding their contributions until they were satisfied on various motters now in dispute .

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

    Tuesday , May 25 . —The Conference assembled this morning , atnine o ' clock , according to adjournment . T . S . Duncombe , Esq ., M . P ., in the chair . . The roll of delegates having been called over , andthe minutes of the previous day ' s sitting confirmed , the standing orders for regulating the proceedings of the C nferenee were agreed to . " . ' . " .-:... '¦ ¦' Mr Passes reported from the Committee , appointed to examine and report on the right of certain delegates to vote in Conference .. It appeared , - that there were only three delegates to whom bine cards had , been issued , thus disqualifying them from voting ; these . delegates were , Mr Riley , delegate from the plasterers of Manchester , which trade had not forwarded their levies , in consequence of a " disputebetween' It and the Central Committee as to the construction to be put upon certain resolutions pasted at the last Conference , recommending the Central

    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 , delegate 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 £ l 10 a ., 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 coine 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 referenc e to the strike of the Manchester building trades was read , upon which '" . * .. Mr Tamoi , of Manchester , said he wished to cerrecta statement that the building trades ^ Manchester had lost that strike . The great point at iss ' ue between the employers and the men was the signing of a document presented by the masters , requiring the . meu to give up their local and general unions- .. [ All the Manchester trades , with the 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 . .

    Mr Hughes , a representative of the bricklayers of Manchester , confirmed this statement as respected his own trade , not one of the many hundreds comprised in which had signed the document . . V . Mr Gouldin , Secretary to the Manchester District Committee , said the contest Was notvirtuplly decided in favour of the employs . The strike commenced for an advance of wages , bnt ultimately resolved itself into a struggle against the si gning ef a document pledging the men to abandon their local and general Unions , which the men succeeded in resisting in every iastnnce except the carpenters , and therefore it could not be said that the strike terminated in favour of the employers , Mr TiTLo * said it would . be batter if the part having reference to the failure of the strike should be struck outentirely , asit was calculated to produce a false impression on the public mind as to the actual results ofthe strike .

    The Chairman 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 Csnference might pass resolutions expressly negativin g any portion of the Report , at a proper stage of the business . ' . ' But the 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 the same time it was mast gratifying to learn that the

    resistance to the document had been successful . To such a document ho thought every trade was justified in offering the most determined resistance , and that association would ^ also be justified at any time in throwing its whole strength into such a struggle , even though it should peril its existence in the attempt . ; : ( Cheers . ) Itwasa question of principle , and if the workmen once gave up the right of protecting themselves against aggression , they would be placed , entirely » t the mercy of the em . ployer « . As to the erroneous impression which it was supposed would be produced , the correction would be made as public as the statement , and therefore no evil consequences could ensue . i ,: : > On this understanding the matter dropped . .

    Mr Bentiby , handloom weaver , objected to that part ofthe report referring to the Wilmslow handloom weaverB , . The number of persons named in the report were hot actually employed .. He complained also . that the Central Committee had not acted promptly in the matteV , or the weavers would not have been in their present p ' ositiori . Some of the hands employed by the Associatibn had not been reducedat all , while others who had been reduced were at present out of work . , .-.... - .. .. MrWatiAMson , on the part of the Central Committee , said that having been appointed specially to conduct this part of the business , he was in a position ta say Mr Bentlej ' 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 he was bound to add that the Central Committee were not able toact so efficiently as it desired to do . in consequence ofnot having sufficient capital at its command . Ataaother period of the business he would call the attention of the Conference to the necessity for pro » iding larger capital for employing both the handloom wearers and the framework knitters . He must in conclusion state that lie feared the delegate from WilmBlow , lik » 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 subject 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 the moiety of the penalty which should be paid on convictions to the informer . He 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 , The GnAiBMAN said , he believed there was no specific sum named in the Act , but it was understood generally that one-half wont . to the informer , . MrPiEthad been frequently asked whether tho Association was prepared to support individuals not connected with ; tho Association in . their ' : attempts to put down this baneful system . It was a question he was nnable'to answer , and he now put it to the Central Committee as one of great importance ?

    The Chairman said , It was a question which the C « ntral Committee could not answer . Its decision must be left to the Conference , and Mr Poel could bring it on at a subsequent period of the sitting . Mr Pbei said that he weuld give notice of a motion on tho subject , ; Mr FoEBEST , 'of Oradley , complained that the men in his district had been much injured b y the establishment of tho system . But the manner In which It was carried on b / the employer rendered it difficult to get at them . Tho shop was ostensibl y kept by the daughter , whose name was over tho door .

    Mr Chance , of Cradlcy , said that he was satisfied , from the success that hnd already attended their efforts in that particular district , that if similar measures were taken by the trades in other parts of the country , equal success might be attained . There were instances in which the principal articles of provisions were sold-at least 25 per cent , above the regular price of other shops , besides being of an inferior quality ; ' and the trade was 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 mugistrates in his locality had always equally divided the penalty . As to the difficulty of getting at the truck-masters , the Act distinctly aimed at putting down the trade , whether carried on directly or indirectly . It was only necessary to show that it was

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    compulsory ' oi'thB part of the ^ workmen . to puwhMe at cVrtaitt ^ ' nops , and It ' dld noVmaiter whether these shops were , curried on in the name of-wife , daughter , or agent ' of the mastf r , penalties could be obtained . That was a point which had been decided over and over again . The real offence was compulsory dealing , and wherever that could be proved , the parties were amenable to the . law . - ¦ ' ' ' .. ""¦ ' . ¦•' ' ¦ . ' ' ¦ ; Messrs Taylor , Bayley , and other delegates ,, having addressed the meeting briefly on thi » subject , and detailed individual instances in which the tra < nc wbb c « rried on , and productive of great injury to the working man , the subject dropped , with the understanding that it woula form a distinct question at a subsequent period . '

    A somewhat desultory discussion ensued as to the rules which guided tbe Central Committee in their support of individual cases . It was asked whether they were prepared to support all Individuals who were discharged on account of the active pirt they took in the affairs of the Association . The CBAiBUANsaid that each case had hitherto been decided on its own merits , and- for his own part he thought that it would be rery difficult to Jay down any general role in the matter . ' . ' . ' .. Mr Mwritr , miner , of Darcy Sever , said he understood that some money had been advanced to the carpenters of Rochdale . He wished to know under what circumstances that money bad been advanced ,

    Mr B 08 H , on the part of the Central Commttteej re . plied that the carpenters of Rochdale struck without having the sanctien 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 not therefore be supported by the Asibciation . But the Central Committee lent them £ 20 , which was quite certain of being repaid . . , Mr Peel said he very inuuh doubted the policy of lending a ay trade money under any circumstances . If they lent it to some trades in arrears , and refused it to others as had been the case , the result ¦ was dissatisfaction . It would be far better to lay down a rigid rule that no assistance could be given to ' any other method than that prescribed by the rules , which distinctly limited it to the trades who had paid up their subscriptions . , Mr Emmett , of Keighley , concurred in this view , and 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 Hawkbswobth , of Sheffield , objected entirely to giving assistance beforehand to any , trade , because he thought It was a very great chance that they ever got tlier money back again . Let them first have all tbe subscriptions paid up , and then give the utmost assistance and support the funds of the Association would afferd . He thought the Central Committee should have acted strictly in accordance with the rules . If they had done io , the discussion need ' not have arisen , and . the dissatisfaction said to exist would never have been created . , ¦ ¦' ... ¦

    -,-The Chairman said he thought it would be advisable , before the Conference separated , to pass a resolution on the subject , 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 tbe matter , and show that they had no discretion in it , but were bound to act imperatively on the law . Mr Parkinson , of Bury , wished to know whether trades were permitted to strike immediatel y against any reduction of their wages ? He had asked the question last year , but it appeared had misunderstood the reply . The Chaibman 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 tbe Central Committee .

    Mr Patten said he saw in the balance sheet a sum of £ 20 lent to the coame-stockingmakers of Manchester . He wished for an explanation of that item . Mr Robson taid that the coarse stockingmakers had 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 had introduced lionew 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 had 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 from inevitable ruin , if the ; were obliged to give assistance to every strike which any trade might choose to make without the previous sanction of tbe 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 pro ceedings of . trades' associations . For his own part , as an agent of the Association , he considered it to be his duty wherever he went , to induce the publicans to take in those papers . ' . . . . " ; Mr Jacobs said he was happy to find in the course of his journeys as agent , the 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 had given its valuable columas to reports of tbe proceedings of the Associr tion ; and" he hoped that the ' trades throughout the country would do all in their power to extend thecircu lation of the Morning Advertiser , and of all papers which pursued a similarly impartial course . ( Cheers . )

    Mr Hawkesworth , 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 trades than at any former period . Instances had occurred , within 'his own knowledge , where neglect on the part of reporters to attend their meetings , after being properly informed of the same , bad been followed by a reprimand from the editor , which secured better attendance subsequently . He quite concurred in the sentiments expressed bylhespeakeri who had preceded him , as to the necessit y 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 of the press , All they desired was , tfcnt 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 Pabkeh was gratified to hear what had fallen from Mr Hawkeswortb . His remarks were most timely , especially after what had recentl y 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 proptrty which had unfortunately occurred in that town , snd which had been saddled upon the trades , and he could positively state , as the result of that investigation , that these violent and deplorable occurrences were not in the slightest degree connected with any trades' union whatever . Some 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 cndeaiour to make others do so . If the Times did so he would accord it the samo credit and support as the Not them Star . The trades , as a body , disclaimed all politics . They took their stand on princi ples which no doubt had a certain connexion with what were called politics , but they desired to keep clear of all mere parly politics , as such , and confine themselves simply to the social and industrial improvement of their order . ( Cheers . ) The Chaibman expressed his pleasure at the discussion that had taken place in Parliament on the subject

    of the Sheffield tradeB , and the convictions of MrOverend . When MrS . Wortley exhibited the large orange-coloured placard emanating from that association , and which , ho believed , was issued b y Mr Parker , it was no doubt done with the intention of prejudicing the House of Commons against the Association . So far from doing that , however , it had the contrary effect ; it had given him , an opportunity of stating the real objects of the Association and disabusing the minds of members of the prejudices which erroneous or imperfect information had 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 the Association so well known—( cheers . )

    The portion of the report relating to the services of Mr Duncombe , as President of . the 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 Duncombe bad paid to the business of the Association , and the great advantages they had derived in consequence . The Hon . Chuirinnu did not alone take the chair for a day or two , at such meetings as that , merely to get popularity , as somo gentlemen of his order were in the habit of doing , but there was not a day tbat he did not call at tbe office of the Association in London , and if there was any business to be done immediately took bis scat , and attended to it with , tho utmost putience and impartiality ,. In his presence ho weuld not venture to say more , but a sense of duty prevented him from saying less ( loud cheers )

    Mr Duncombe briefly expressed his thanks , and said that having now gone through the report , tha question he had to put was , that the report be now received and adopted . _ . : The motion was put , and carried by acclamation Mr James , of London , said he found that the trade * of Birmingham knew very little of the exietence and objects of that Association , and he thought that some means should ^ taken to make them acquainted with the Mr Robson said they did not know whwe the tnvvk * were in the habit of meeting , so that th « y could not get at thorn ; the Central Committee would , howaver , be mo ° t

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    happy to aid in any measttrewh'ich would carry « & « the object suggested by Mr ' James . \ ... .,., .. „ j . The Conference Vhen adjourfled at one o ! clock , till half-past two , ' , , .

    .: Afternoon sitting . . .., On the MaSsembllngof the Conference , ' the next business on tho paper , vi * ,, " the amendment of rules , " was proceeded with . , . , , ' - 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 the servant of the Manchester District Committee . The first amendment he should move was that in the rule headed •' AnnualConference , ' ? the . words , *' or Central Com . mittee " should be expunged , thus taking from the Central Committee the discretionary powtr which the laws at present vested in them , from a fear that it might be used caDriciouBly .

    Mr Robson said he objected to the amendment , because it might be productive of great inconvenience if the place of meeting was fixed by the previous Conference , and imperative upon them to meet in that town , no matter what circumstances might arlie 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 midst of such circumstances ! For his own part , he thought is was a discretionary power which the Central Csmmittee 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 the slightest tendency in its , present shape to prevent a cordial co-operation between the Manchester Districtand the Central Committee . As to the objection about the " Bull-ring riots , ' be considered it a mere bugbear , and that if such ' a circumstance should occur tbe Conference might meet in Birmingham and adjourn immediately afterwards to some other place . . : ¦ After a short discussion the amendment was negatived . Mr Goolden then moved the following amendment on the rule "Special Sessions . " Instead of the following

    clauee : — "In case the Central Committee , neglect to call such special meeting on such requisition the requiaitionists shall have power to eall 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 ;' they 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 requisltionists power to call tbe special meetings themselves ; ' but to the latter portion be thought , there was a very tangible objection . The amendment was proposed by ' the Manchester trades , among whom considerable feeling existed at the time against tbe decisions of the Central Committee . Under such . circumstances , Manchester would have been tbe very wor 6 t 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 was held , would . have been the place for holding that special meeting . In . fact , all tbe reasons that applied to the amendment just negatived ,, applied to this portion ' of the second amendment also . . . .

    Mr HDMPnBiEB , of the Potteries , conourred in Mr Rqbson ' B viewb of the amendment } but suggested that the difficulty with respect to the last clause of the amendment might be met by inserting , that' the conference should be held in some central part of England . Mr Williamson thought that if the Conference had confidence enough in any body of men to . entrust them with . the management ofthe Association ; they ought not to ' deprive them of tbe 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 oil times justified in depriving any committees of all discretionary powers which might by possibility be abused . ' . " . ' , . .

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

    'Mr Peel thought the question of expense should not be a paramount question . At present the high priced trades were very much dissatisfied with what they considered the unfair leaning of tbe 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 at . tacbing the high paid trades to the Association , they wfire ' mpst surely ' advancing their own interests by increasing the income and the numbers of the Association . Mr Williamson wished to know who were to pay the 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 be carefully looked to , and that before they agreed to such a resolution , they Bhould define exactly the quarter from which such expenses were to be defrayed .

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

    MrJ . Taylor . was of opinion that the alteration of the rule , by taking away the discretionary power of the Central Committee , would at the same time take away 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 deleeates , he thought the same object would be attained by having tbe majority of delegates , who would of course represent the majority of the paying trades ., , Mr Berry ,, of Farrington , was of opinion that the original , law was best calculated to meet all the requirements of the executive and the members of the Assoelation . ' ' ; ' ¦ """ ' '

    Mr Haweeswobth , at some length , supported the lame view of the subject . To take the discretionary power from the executive , was entirely to annihilate their pewer in the matter , and yet they were the most competent parties to judge upon it . At the same time the rule was just to the requisitioniBts , because it gave them the power , if they thought proper , upon the refusal of the Central Committee , to call a special conference themselves ) . He had formerly been a determined opponent of that Aisociation , but haying now given its rules arid constitution a careful consideration , he had been led to the conclusion that they were generally well calculated to promote the great objects in view . It was quite

    poshible that the Central Committee might err , but it was better that in 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 opposed to their conscientious convictions , aud calculated , in their estimation , to injure the Association . He objected 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 , in almost all cases , either render a special conference unnecessary , or lead the executive to acquiesce in their ideas as to the time and place of such meetings . He moved that the rule 6 tand as at present .

    Mr Saundebb , of Maidstone , could bear out the views of the last speaker as to the efficacy of personal deputations to the Central Committee . In several cases this had been done with reference to his own trade , and in every instance , with the most satisfactory results . Mr Diamond thought the suggestion of Mr Bentley , to appeal to the trades in such cases , was , under all the circumstances , 'the best course to pursue , . Mr Winters , of Leicester , said that Mr Peel had stated the Central Committee had paid more attention to the low-priced trades than to the high-priced ones . He found that the number of cases in which the Central Committee had interfered in the high-priced trades was seven , the number of low-paid trades was only three . There might have bieri greater cause among the one than tbe other , but the fact shewed that the high-priced trades hud had a fair share of the benefits of the Association .

    Mr Goulden replied , and being put to the conference , the Cluiirmau deelured the , proposed amendment to be lost by a majority of 40 to 22 , and tho rule was consrquently 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 Goulden , in supporting this motion , said lie considered six months was too long , and precluded the Association from taking advantage of much valuable experience whiph might be gained in the meantime . Mr Hawkeswortu seconded tho motion , which ap . ptared to him to be a most judicious amendment on the existing laws . Messrs Chnnce , Diamond , and Jacobs briefly spoke on 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 of the words "three months" and the insertion of two months ; and that instead ofthe concurrence of two-thirds of the Conference being necessary to make such alterations valid , it » hou \ d be by a bare majority . A short discussion ensued , and on the question being put , the Chairman declared the motion was lost by &

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    majority Or 52 to 6 , and that the rule would stln , i f ^ 1 ^ j forth fere * months instead of six , M prono " a i " * ' - 1 * ° Goulden . - ¦ ' l < 0 P 0 ! e « b » Kr I ( be Mr Robsok moved the ' next amendment . By th I ^' i sent rule the members of the Central Committ . V Pre " I ?? . eligible to be elected as delegates ; he wished ton *" I SS that , and that they should simply attend the Confe ^ I « as the servants of the Conference ; and therefor . * 1 a that the present rule be omitted , and the folia * * " i « p Inserted . "The Central Committee shall not be "' " * I " 1 to be elected as Delegates to Conference , but shall r tt B l * oJ in their capacity of the Executive Committee of the * B n t ciation . " ¦ Ali ° - H ji The motion was unanimously agreed to . H . _ , Mr GouLDEtr moved that the returns of dele * Bist should be made 14 days previous to Whit-Monday in . B « r of 7 days , as in the present rules . Ie *» H * ' .

    The motion was agreed to . H r . , Mr Robson then moved the omission of rules \ % B la 19 , and the iniertion of the following instead :-4 l H j ! Te Coraroittee to meet from day to day for the transact' H « c < of the business of the Association ; and further , that tv . Hlld . number of the Committee be 5 instead ofll , " fhe * B « ree meaning ofthe motion was , that they Bhould have an- limay manent sitting Committee , by which means , instead » nm ^ being as at present limited to the members residue ; , > EnSs-London , they might elect any member of the Associo . Hand tion nhomigl't appear qualified for the office , it Ba , IIEer absolutely necessary tluit the Association should be con Boa } ducted by a permanent executive , and by widening the * Igfr&l ! choice of members they had a better chance of securin g V »<< f > efficiency . At a subsequent period he would more a r 5 | K ec

    commendation to ? ha Board of Directors of the Acacia , l&na 1 tion for the Employment of Labour to make as far s » |||> er possible the management of the two Associations iden . [ Srii tical . They were so closely connected , that it was im . HExis portant . if possible , the management of tbe two should f | £ vhi be vested in the same hands . By adopting the coursa Im ^ he recommended they would be enabled to do so , and , at | Ht v the same time , to attend promptly to the cases of diaputj timty requiring mediation or superintendence in the prorincej , ffirai He was not by any means wedded to the exact number Bra ! he had named ; but he considered the adoption of tha M > ss alteration on principle of the greatest importance to the Be < Association . By this means they would secure that H » continuity and harmony of action between the two Asso . Bd ' ciations which were of sueh vital importance . Bib :

    Mr Williamson agreed in the principle proposed by * MrRsbson , but thought the number was too small ; the Bfr quorum of three might be liable to abuse , and tbe Cen . Hp " tral Committee might , in a press of business , find itself Bpcl unablo to overtake the business before it . He trusted , B $ n ' therefore , that they would increase the number to seven , BP and that the quorum should be five . As to the addt . B *' tional expense which might be incurred by the adoption , Wp ™ he thought it would be abundantly compensated b y the l » increased power at the disposal of the Association . ug&f Mr Parker was quite satisfied that a permanent exe- B ° cutive was absolutely necessary , and further , that the Hr increase of numbers from five to seven was a judicious H ^ one , because two of the seven might be sent forth aj H er missionaries , and communicate more directly and accu . Ili 8 ratelythe views and intentions of the Central Committee li ^ to the trades in the provinces than by the employment of I * mere casual lecturers , or parties who ' had only occa- Iff 01 sional instructions from the central office . Out

    The Chaibman said the questionbefore the Conference li " was a most important one , and involved an entire altera- IS tion of the constitution of the governing body . It would W be better that the question should be taken as one of h principle , aud that the Conference should in the first W place decide whether it would have a permanent execn- Hf tive or not ; they could afterwards ,. if they agreed to that , W / ° settle the number of that committee . He su .-gestcd , Wr therefore , that they take the questions in the following Bg shape : — "That the executive shall for the future be a OP permanent body , to meet from day to day for the trans- [ a ^ action of business , and to be bma-fide members of a Trade w Society . " . , me Air Hawkesworth thought tbat the missionaries and Ur lecturers ofthe Association should be added to the exe- Iff cutira and considered as part of the paid members of that mi

    Mr Clocgban , Holytown , was most anxious to caution' IS the Conference against entrusting any of the governing | a power of the Association to the lecturers . He had seen I too man ; evilB arise from such a source , not to givs big- I most determined opposition to such a proposition . The I Miners'Association had at one time fifty-four lecturers , they were the pest of every Conference they attended , » nd 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 had no wish to disparage the character and utility of lecturers : they were most useful , and had . au important duty to perform ; but what he wished to If see was , that they should be kept in their own Bphere o , IP action . '

    IVMessrs Jacobs and Peel expressed themselves against IF the adoption of such ao invidious distinetion as that laid If down by the last speaker . It was , in fact , taking advan- If tage of the fact that a mnn was put in a position to ao- If quire more extensive and practical information to de- If privebimof the ordinary privileges of citizenship . Iff Mr Diamond said lie was instructed to move that the V 18 th rule remain as it is , and that the members of the V Central Committee be delegates frem trades paying to the H funds of the Association . Hecautioned the Conference B against adopting the principle of a permanent executive , i which might lead to great abuse . For hia own part , he B thought it was something like creating a close corpora- I tion , if they elected the same individuals year after year I to the management . , B ¦ Mr SiCNDtss , 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 HoonES , of Manchester , said that if even the alter , ation was carried , as proposed , the elections would have to be made out of the trades of London , and he was also of opinion that the change , if carried , would tend to supersode the District Committees , who were , he believed , of essential service , to the Association . Upon the 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 ami 19 require amendment , 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 National Association , and that . a , Select Committee be appointed to draw up a rule in conformity with the proposed change ; to settle the number of the Cen < tral Committee ; the quorum necessary for tho tran 3 ac « tion of business ; and whether , provincial members sbMl form any part of the Central Committee ; and so report their opinion in the morning . "

    Messrs Parker , Goulden , Robson , Hawkesivorth , Forsythe , Humphries ,. Winters , Peel , and Ryley were appointed a Committee for . this purpose , with instructions to report to-morrow morning . Mr JameSj 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 chairmakers and carrers , that they should take measures for agitating the trades of Birmingham , either by taking steps to find out the meeting places of the trades , or by issuing placards , calling a public meeting , with « view of making known the existence , principles , and objects of the Association . He would , therefore , move thiit a com * mittee be appointed to adopt measures for agitating the trades of Birmingham by means of public meetings and deputations for the purposes he had named .

    Several Delegates expressed their concurrence in this step , and their belief that ' much good would result from tne adoption of such a course . The Chairman said he thought tlure could not be any objection to members of that Confereuce visiting tbe trades and explaining the subject to them , but he thought there were great difficulties in the way of 8 public meeting . For his own part he thought that having assemblsd there as a Conference for their own convcnU ence , they were by no maans justified in calling any sues meetings . If the trades had moved themselves ans called a meeting , inviting the Conference to attend , it would bo a very different matter , but he certainly could not concur in the calling of a meeting by the Conference , which he thought would be a most improper interference on , their part .

    Mr Hawkeswobtd concurred in these views . There could be no objection to waiting individually upon the trades at their respective places of meeting , bat it would be most unwise to call a public meeting in the present position of the Conference with respect to the trades of Birmingham . . The motion , on being put , was agreed to . A Committee was appointed , and the Conference adjourned at a quarter paBt six o ' clock . Wedhesdai , Mat 2 G . —The Chairman took his seat this morning at nine o ' clock , and the roll having been called , and the minutes ofthe previous day ' s sitting cobfirmed , Mr Parkeb brought up the Report of the Committee appointed yesterday to frame- rules by which the govern " ing body could be converted into a permanent executive . The Committee recommended that the 19 th rule bo expunged , and that the following be substituted for the loth rulo : — . '

    "Tbat the Central Committee be composed of a president and seven oth « r members , the President shall be elected bj the Conference , without reference to hi ) connection with the Association , but the other seven must be payable members for six months previous to a trade society in connection with the Association ; and that the Committee meet from day to day for the transaction of general business , nv « to form a quorum , the chairman to iiayo a casting vote in case of equality- of votes on the part of the remainder of the Committee . That in case ofthe resignation or demise of any member ofthe Central Committee , the next in rotation en the Ccmferencs list shall be elected to 1111 up the vacancy . "

    The Committee were of opinion that tho adoption of these rules would secure unanimity , prevent iuvidionS distinctions , give a guarantee that the individuals appointed to serve on the Committee were impressed wi'l * the importance and utility of the Association , aud prevent the necessity of . appointing a Corresponding Secretary , as one of the seven members might discharge this duty . . Tho report was received , and gave rise to a long and desultory discussion , in which ' great contrariety of opinion was expressed by the various delegates who addressed the Conference , but as the arguments were generally of a local and technical character , it is unnecessary

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    6 ¦ ¦ .-i Ll-lii i ^^^^ ,,,, ..., ^ .-. ^ f , __ _ . -- .. a ' .-.. .. n . - .-V- -. ' /* -: ^^! -- - — •' ; . - I- . I- - . '' - .. ' - '*¦ .. ¦! ..- ¦ -v .- -.-r ; " ¦'¦ ' , - . ...., . ¦ — ¦ - ¦¦ . . , . .. ,. - . ?„ * ., . i ; . . .,... * .,.- ¦< '"'"~ ' \ : _ _ j ' " ' . .- — _ —* ilii » .- » — ¦ - — - ¦¦ .. — ,. L ,. i i _ yiff » w , .. - .. _ . . . ' ... _»* # . H

• Citation
  • Northern Star (1837-1852), May 29, 1847, page 6, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct1420/page/6/