REGARDED AS CHALLENGE.

Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 165, 12 July 1919, Page 7

REGARDED AS CHALLENGE.

IRON MAHK3T PARALYSED. LONDON, .July 11. The increase in the price of coal has paralysed the Birmingham iron market, and quotations are suspended. It is j estimated that British gas companies' coal bill will be increased by £ti.000,000 annually. Sir Hugh Bell, an* ironmaster and colliery owner, declares that British steel will rot be able to compete in the ■world's markets. The miners' secretary, Mr. Hodges, has issued a detailed statement with a ■view to proving that the coal situation can be met without increasing the price to consumers. The increase is regarded by the miners as a challenge to their demand for the nationalisation of the industry. The miners' conference to be held at Keswick on Tuesday will probably decide on a national ballot on the question of a strike early in August to enforce immediate nationalisation. Sir Leo Chiozza Money, JNI.P., asserts that the official figures show no justification for the increase. Electricians threaten to extinguish the peace illuminations in London. The increase is described by Mr. R. Smillie, president of the Miners' Federation, as a bombshell. He says the extra, cost should have been met by the previous increase of 2/6. The miners will demand an inquiry. The coal mine owners declare they will not receive any part of the increase, and that their profit remains fixed at 1/2 a ton. Over 300 members of the House of Commons have signed a memorial to the. against the nationalisation of mines, and more arc expected to cign.— (A. and X-Z. Cable.)