COAL PROBLEMS.

Wairarapa Age, 3 July 1929, Page 7

COAL PROBLEMS.

LABOUR MINIS IERS & OWNERS CONFER. CONDITIONS OF THE INDUSTRY. FULL DISCUSSION. United Press Association.—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. RUGBY, July 1. The Prime Minister, accompanied by Mr. J. H. Thomas, Minister responsible for employment, Miss Bondfleld, Minister for Labour, Mr. Graham, President of the Board of Trade, and Mr. Ben Turner, Minister for Mines, met Mr. Evan Williams and members of the Mining Association and Coal Owners Organisation at Downing street to-day.’ .The meeting lasted over two hours, and the condition of the coal industry was fully discussed.—(British Official Wireless.) VARIOUS ASPECTS. VIEWS FRANKLY EXPRESSED. LONDON, JULY 1. The "Doily Herald” says that the owners franl ly expressed their views as to the modification of working hours, the problem of the- reorganisation of the coal industry, and the trade outlook.— (Australian Press Association.) The situation in the coalfields, which was fully reviewed at an interview on June 27 between the Prime Minister and the other Ministers and the executive of the Miners’ Federation, is recognised as being one of the most difficult domestic problems before the Government. ! The "Daily Herald” says that it is believed that the Government will be able to make an early announcement, possibly in the King’s Speech next week, on the subject of the length of the working days in mines. Under the Eight Hours Act, passed after the 1926 strike, the extension of the length of the working day underground to eight hours, instead of seven, was effected. The miners’ demand for the repeal of the Act was supported by the Labour Party during the election, but the question of what modification was possible was left open. There are many other questions relating to the mining industry awaiting decision, including the prolonged decision in that industry, its relation to the international situation, and the long overdue reorganisation of production and distribution. It is stated that the late conference was very friendly in tone, and hopes were expressed that the discussion would prove of great help in arriving at details of policy. Arrangements were made for mineowners to Interview members of the Government. It was believed that this conference will also be of value in promoting the will for co-operative constructive effort.