THE PROFITS ON COAL.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1379, 4 March 1912, Page 5

THE PROFITS ON COAL.

SOUTH WALES OWNERS HEADY TO FIGHT. "TRIUMPH FOR SYNDICALISM." • London, March 1. Sir James Joicey, chairman and managing director of James Jcicey and Co., Ltd., and tlio Lambton Colliery, Ltd., the two largest colliery companies in tho County of Durham, says' that the capital employed in the coalmining industry does not yield above 5 per cent interest. Sir Arthur Markham, M.P. for Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, and a director of several coal companies, says that the net profit does not exceed 81d. per 'ton. The miners' next great fight will be for a seven hours' day. Mr. D. Thomas, managing director of the Cambrian Colleries Combine, and president of the owners' organisation, in an interview, expressed tho opinion that the Premier's statement was the greatest triumph for revolutionary syndicalism that had yet occurred in Britain. "Not until the Act is enforced," added Mr. Thomas, "will tho South Wales owners cease their opposition."

PRESS APPREHENSIVE. WHAT WILL'THE NEXT DEMAND BE? London, March 1. The "Horning; Leader" says that Liberal and Conservative employers in the House of Commons are apprehensive that if the minimum wage is granted to miners, other classes earning less than the miners will urge similar claims. The- "Morning Post," emphasising the point that compulsory legislation would bo futile, contends that, a victory for syndicalism would bo a disaster of the first magnitude. "The Government's paramount duty is to protect free labour. 'Die Army, the Territorials, and the Reserves should be used to ensure the handling of coal, and the working of mines if necessary." The. paper recalls tliD action of M. Briand in smashing the railway strike in France. The "Standard" says the principle of a minimum is inherently vicious and susceptible of disastrous extension.