Truckers' Official Hoffa Addresses Economics Class

Jimmy Hoffa, who left school at 14, addressed Economics 284 yesterday on "Collective Bargaining in the Over-the-Road Transportation Industry."

The Vice-president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, in a press conference before the off the record class-room speech, denied New York County District Attorney Frank Hogan's charge that he was backed by racketeers. "I have been investigated by grand juries, and congressional committees. I would submit to an honest investigation in New York City, confident that no irregularities would be found."

Hoffa admitted that John Dioguardia, a convicted New York extortioner, was a close friend of his. He said that he met Dioguardia several years ago in union meetings but now believes that his friend has no connection with organized labor.

Though stating that he was not trying to "take over" trucking in New York, Hoffa said that there was a need for further organization. If all trucking entering New York is not well organized, wage standards will break down. Trucks coming from the South where there are low wage scales have principally caused the problem.