COAL SHORTAGE.

Waikato Times, Volume 121, Issue 20230, 26 June 1937, Page 6

COAL SHORTAGE.

WARNING BY MINISTER. PRODUCTION MUST INCREASE. SUPPLIES FROM OVERSEAS. (By Telegrepb.—Press Association.) GREYMOUTH, Friday. The Minister of Mines, the Hon. P. C. Webb, discussed with 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 tho 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-ton and one ton lots. 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. Position Completely Changed. “ In short, the position of the coalmining Industry has completely changed during the past 18 months, so much so that I am convlnoed we are already faced with the possibility of a serious shortage. ** The Railway Department has encroached considerably on its reserves of coal to maintain its services. A number of coal companies, and the State Coal Mines Department are well behind in filling railway orders. Retailers of household coal in some districts are complaining of a shortage of supplies. “ The poslMon Is such that I have been approached to agree to Increased Importations of coal. I feel that euch a step would he most regrettable, particularly in view of the depressed condition in tbe industry for & number of years. “It Is obvious, however, the wheels of Industry must be kept turning, and no home fireside must go short. If coal cannot be produced In New Zealand then It must be imported. “ I appeal to the coal-mine owners and miners to take steps to avoid the necessity for any action of tills nature, (f sufficient coal cannot be produced by the present staff, then the staff must be Increased until no able-bodied miner remains out of full-time employment. 44 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 Inoreased importat'on of coal, an eventuality I have for years done my utmost to prevent. 44 In harmony with my appeal, I have already requested the Superintendent of State Mines to employ additional miners, and action In this dlrectfon will be immediately taken.