THE COAL SITUATION

Hokitika Guardian, 6 October 1920, Page 1

THE COAL SITUATION

fAUSTRALIAN & N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION] PUKEMIRO MINE DISPUTE. WELLINGTON, Oct. 5. The situation with regard to tlie dispute at tho Pukemiro coal mine is now considered to be a little easier. Certain negotiations are in train between the parties, with reference to the status of the engine drivers at Pukemiro. It is believed that the miners will resume work on Thursday, pending a f urther discussion of the position. Hie Executive of the Coal Mine Owners’ Association will meet in Wellington on Thursday, when the whole matter will be considered. ~\ TAUPIRI MEN TO HELP. AUCKLAND, Oct. 5. Tho miners engaged at the Taupiri extended mine at Huntly, held a stop-jn-ork meeting to-day for the purpose of discussing the matter of a levy in aid of the Pukemiro miners who are on strike. Mr J. O’Brien, the Union’s representative on the New Zealand Miners’ Federation, addressed the meeting on the question of supporting the Pukemiro men. A show of hands was taken and a majority voted in favour of a levy'. About half of those present signified their willingness to contribute one day’s pay a fortnight towards the relief fund, \vhile only several others held up their hands in opposition to the proposal. The remainder did not vote either way. The proposal was thus declared carried. Tho meeting lasted exactly half an hour, and it was not anticipated that the output of coa lfor the day would be appreciably decreased. . Approximately nine, hundred and forty tons of coal iVere mined at Huntly and Rotowaru on Monday. If it is expected that should no unforeseen circumstances arise, the maximum output will bo reached within the next few days. The Pukemiro men Sro still on strike, and there are stated to he no indications of an early settlement. UNREST AMONG MINERS. , i LONDON, October 4. Thei'e is considerable resiiiveness among English and Welsh miners and numerous sectional strikes in Glanmorganshire and elsewhere, owing to the so-called failure of the negotiations. Several thousand miners are idle. Th 0 Welsh miners executive to-day decided to advise members to vote solidly against the masters terms. Derbyshire miners Council also recommends a vote against the proposed settlement.