COAL INDUSTRY’S APPEAL

Taranaki Daily News, 12 September 1930, Page 9

COAL INDUSTRY’S APPEAL

CANCELLATION OF ORDERS DEPUTATION MEETS MINISTERS. CASE OF RAILWAY DEPARTMENT, By Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, Sept. JI. A deputation of mine owners, miners and citizens of- West Coast mining centres waited on Cabinet Ministers to-day seeking the placing of an embargo on the importation of, Australian coal in order to protect the industry in New Zealand. It was stated that as a result of the cancellation of orders the mining indus--try was in a very serious position. Replying, the Minister of Mines said that tho quantity of New Zealand coal used on the railways had increased very appreciably year by year. There had been an increase in the production of coal in New Zealand and importations hpd decreased by over 40,000 tons for the six months ended June Iqst. The importation in July amounted to 34,000 tons, and last month to 22,000 tons. The principal offenders so far as importations were concerned were gas companies. As Minister he had made a request to harbour boards to assist the position by making use of New Zealand coal Instead of crude oil for heating purposes. The Hon. A. J. Murdoch referred to the stoppages which had taken place on the coast and said miners should realise that if they wanted assistance they should help the Government and the country. The Minister of Railways said he had predicted the trouble over 12 months ago. The New Zealand mines had enjoyed a period of prosperity during the stoppage in Australia, and the position naturally could not last. An embargo was a matter for the Government as a whole, but ke desired to point out that if it were imposed immediately many industries would be embarrassed. It was impossible for the department to continue to buy New Zealand coal at the present rate owing to the heavy accumulations and the fact that there had been a reduction in train services. The Hon. E. A. Ransom expressed willingness to assist by having an inquiry made into the reason impoited coal was being used,