MR. WEBB ASKS FOR MORE COAL

Northern Advocate, 26 June 1937, Page 15

MR. WEBB ASKS FOR MORE COAL

Country Faced With

Shortage

(Per Press Association. Covyriqlit J

GREYMOUTH, This Day

The Minister of Mines, the Hon. P. C. Webb, yesterday discussed with officials of the State Miners’ Union the continuity of production, urging that the demand required the elimination of any stoppages. Mr Webb subsequently made the following statement:—

• “There is ample evidence that the increased purchasing power of the community has resulted in a substantial increase in the consumption -of coal. Householders who, during the depression, were forced to reduce their purchases to a bag at a time, are again ordering their requirements in half-tons, and one-ton lots. Completely Changed.

“Improved conditions in industry are also responsible for a greatly increased use of coal, for industrial power and heat. Particularly important is the additional tonnage needed by the Railway Department. “In short-, the position of the - coal-mining industry has been completely changed during the past 18 months, so much sp that I am convinced we are already faced with the possibility of a serious

shortage. “The Railway Department has encroached considerably on its reserve of coal to maintain'its seiwices. A number of coal companies, and the State Goal Mines Department, are well behind in filling railway orders. Retailers of household coal in some districts are complaining of a shortage of supplies. - Imports May be Increased.

“The position is such that I have been approached ’ to agree to increased importations of coal. I feel that such a step would be most regrettable, particularly in view of the depressed conditions in the industry for a number of years. 'lt is obvious, however, the wheels of industry must be kept turning, and no -Jiome firesides must go short. If coal cannot be produced in New Zealand then it must he imported. ' f “I appeal to the coalmine owners and miners to take; steps to avoid the necessity for any action of this nature. If sufficient coal cannot be produced by the. present staff, then the staff must be increased until no ablebodied miner remains out of full-time employment. V Industry Must Respond,

“Unless the industry responds to my appeal—and the employees as well as the employers have a duty in this direction —I Will have no alternative but to concur- in the increased importation of coal, an eventuality I have for years done my utmost to- prevents, - ' ■’ ■

“In ‘ harmony with my appeal, I have already recmested the superintendent of State Mines to employ additional miners, and /action in this direction will be taken immediately. It is proposed that, should the usual summer reduction in the. coal trade warrant a reduction in staff, the nrovist’ons of the. agreement already in existence will inniv. na-nie'h’’. +be i*«?t to be r»ut on will be the first to be put off.”