HERBERT R. O'CONOR, GOVERNOR. 2059

official, he should be an elected officer. I cannot subscribe to
this latter suggestion on the information I have on the subject
but, of course, the Legislative Council is free to study this
possibility also.

Under all the circumstances, I feel compelled to veto the
measure.

PENSIONS.

Chapter 496 (Senate Bill 250). There has been passed and
signed, the General Employees Retirement Bill which is
Chapter 377 (House Bill 582).

Senate Bill 250 pertains to the inclusion of Clerks of Court
in the General Retirement System. The State Law Depart-
ment rules, in its official opinion to me, that it is inconsistent
with the general statute and should be vetoed.

PERISHABLE FOOD PRODUCTS.

Chapter 909 (House Bill 550). A different situation exists
in regard to the measure which would cover interference with
transportation, delivery or distribution of perishable food
products in intra-state commerce. I am inclined to the belief
that this measure is directed against labor. Certain occur-
rences in other States, where perishable food products have
been held up in transit following labor disputes, gave rise to
similar proposals in the other jurisdictions.

Fortunately, we have not suffered from such practices in
Maryland and it is sincerely to be hoped that there will be
no resort to them. We do not want labor to think that any
statute would have its origin in distrust of their good faith
and allegiance to their country in a time of national peril. We
assume that labor, speaking collectively, is just as patriotic
as any other group. Their cooperation is sorely needed at
this time and I am confident that we will not be disappointed
in their joint efforts for industrial mobilization. I don't believe
that we will help in getting their cooperation by enacting a
statute which seems to be directed toward the labor group.

Another important consideration must be borne in mind.
I refer to the fact that nothing will be lost if this measure
does not become law, because there now exists adequate meas-
ures prohibiting and punishing offenses such as those desig-
nated in Chapter 909. Indictments for Conspiracy, Malicious
Destruction of Property, Unlawful Assembly, Riot and Rout
and other crimes, would lie for the unlawful acts punishable
if House Bill 550 were enacted.

I also make note of the fact that numerous members of the
General Assembly, many of whom voted for the Bill, have since
the adjournment of the Legislature urged its veto.