Coal

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30453, 29 May 1964, Page 10

Coal

Sir, —Referring to your editorial on coal and oil. In 1949 known reserves of recoverable coal within the Empire exceeded 330,000 million tons, representing 1100 years’ consumption at the then annual output. Since then consumption declined in all Empire countries with the exception of Australia. In New Zealand

proved reserves of over 1100 million tons represent well over 200 years consumption at present annual output. Reserves of oil do not exceed 40 years’ consumption, with steadily increasing prices as the more easily exploited fields become exhausted. Decline in consumption of coal is due entirely to the emphasis everywhere placed on oil, notwithstanding that in New Zealand every ton of coal displaced by oil represents an additional charge on our overseas funds of at least £3. Capacity loading of equipment at the present fullydeveloped mines would ensure profitable operations. Huntly State Mines profit last year exceeded £250,000. — Yours etc., T. McGHIE, Mining engineer. May 28, 1964.