ADDRESSES TO MINERS

Press, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23447, 30 September 1941, Page 8

ADDRESSES TO MINERS

MINISTERS’ VISIT TO WAIKATO (P.R.) WELLINGTON, Sept. 29. .A more detailed account of the visit paid to the Waikato mining district at the week-end by the Minister for Finance (the Hon. W. Nash) and the Minister for Mines (the Hon. P. C. Webb) was given on his rettirn to Wellington to-day by Mr Webb. He said that three meetings of miners were addressed, and the main point emphasised was the importance of everyone doing his best toward maintaining maximum production. ‘Tt is true that the miners had contemplated adopting a go-slow policy in order to bring the question of economic stabilisation to r. head.” Mr Webb raid. “After hearing Mr Nash’s speeches, however, it is to their credit, and proof of their loyalty, that they decided by an overwhelming majority not to participate ■in anything that would injure the production of coal. Advice to this effect has been received from the miners’ secretary.” Mr Webb explained that Mr Nash and he went to the Waikato at the invitation of the Mine Workers’ Federation, Mr Nash being invited to speak on the economic stabilisation plan. The three meetings he addressed were well attended, nearly all the miners in the Waikato field being present at one other of them. Mr Nash explained the many difficulties that all governments had to face during a war crisis, and emphasised the importance of all elements engaged in production giving of their best. He explained at length how the Government was occupied with the cost of living problem, and answered many questions. Mr Webb said that both Mr Nash and himself were delighted with the magnificent response to their appeal for continued production without interruptions. Both Ministers had expressed their appreciation of what the miners were doing, but emphasised that others were doing the same, and that production was higher in spite of 100.000 men being out of the industry. The Ministers also referred to the magnificent fight being put up by the Russians against the Nazis, and suggested specially to New Zealand Communists that the best way to help Russia was to help New Zealand produce more food and clothing for those engaged in the struggle.