Biden stays clear of port dispute

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is calling on President Joe Biden to intervene in a labour dispute involving west coast ports that has seen container ships face delays. “We urge you to appoint an independent mediator to help the parties reach a voluntary agreement,” Chamber president Suzanne Clark wrote in a letter to the president Friday. As talks approach a oneyear mark without a contract, Clark warned of a crippling effect on the U.S. economy. The White House said Biden respects the collective bargaining process and wants negotiations to continue.