MORE PITS CLOSED

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 10 March 1944, Page 5

MORE PITS CLOSED

MINERS WANT BETTER CONDITIONS London, March 9 The strike of Welsh coal miners extended to-day when the number of pits closed down increased to 165 with between 85,000 to 90,000 miners idle. The South Wales Miners’ Council is expected to meet to-morrow, when it will probably lake a strong recommendation that the men should return to work. Wales is now in the grip of the most calamitous miners' strike since 1926. A coalowners’ spokesman put the numoer of affected pits at 156, employing 80,000 men of the 100,000 engaged in this coalfield. These strikers have virtually brought to a standstill mines producing the world's best steam coal, which is vitally needed, not only foi war factories, railways and home industries. but for ships’ bunkers and cargoes for special overseas needs. Street scenes in the Rhondda Valley, one ol' the most famous coal producing centres, are reminiscent to-day of the big unemployment days of the post-war industrial depression. The miners stood idly at street corners vowing their determination to stick it out until their grievances are met. Pit-head gear throughout the valley is silent, no smoke issuing from the chimneys.

A coal-hewer said: "I know people are saying that we are letting down the soldiers, but we are fighting for improved conditions for them when they return.” The stoppage is already affecting industries. Coal for boilers and for producers is exhausted at one electricallypowered works in South Wales. The Fuel Minister, Major Lloyd George, is negotiating with a committee of miners and owners in London. The Minister undertook t 6 consider other matters concerning allowances perculiar to South Wales when the men return to work. The men’s representatives have joined the Minister in urging the men to return to work. The meeting also considered the overhaul of the wage structure, which is very complicated. The Minister submitted proposals which both sides agreed to consider.