British Coal Industry’s Problems—Co-operation Of Employer And Employee

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 12, Issue 37, 13 April 1948, Page 4

British Coal Industry’s Problems —Co-operation Of Employer And Employee

Coal is recognised as the key to Britain’s economic situation. For coal is the basis of -industry, and industry is the basis of economic recovery. This is borne out by the Economic Survey for 1947 and the Reid Report of 1945. The Report named the three essentials for bringing about a substantial increase in production as being: Reorganisation and replanning of the mines, the, extension and improvement of mechanical aids, and the full co-operation of the miners. The tremendous strides made in coal production in Britain towards the end of last year indicate that these essentials have at least been recognised, and that the miners are giving their fullest efforts. But the Reid Report also made it perfectly plain that machinery alone could not achieve success.

“The first point to emphasise is that nm amount 1 of mechanisation can do away with the necessity for regular attendance and a full and fair day’s work.' . . . The problem of security full co-operation between employers and workmen is the most difficult and urgent task the industry hias to face.”