BRITISH LABOUR CRISIS.

Hokitika Guardian, 30 May 1921, Page 3

BRITISH LABOUR CRISIS.

CABLE NEWS.

BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ABBN., COPYRIGHT.

MINERS VIEWS

LONDON, May 28

The miners’ leaders, when interviewed expressed keen disappointment at to-day's discussion. They stated the Government scheme fora resumption of work seemed.primarily designed to get the men back to work first and then discuss the details afterwards. They said: “The miners will have none of this. Something more tangible must be produced if peace is to result.”

GOVERNMENT PROPOSALS

LONDON, May 28.

It has been officially announced by the Government that the Government proposals for a settlement which were submitted to the coal miners and the owners, prlovide for temporary arrrangements (as cabled yesterday). The duration of these arrangements is dependent on the extent by which the Government’s ten millions and the owners’ sacrifice of the standard rate of profits for three months, will make up the difference between the “economic” wages the mines are able to pay, and the actual wages fixed. The statement goes on: The miners and owners are unable to agree to t terms for a permanent settlement. The dispute must, therefore be decided hv one of the following three methods :- (1) A national wage board, composed of an equal representation of the owners and miners, with a neutral chairman, with a. casting vote. (2) A tribunal of three persons. (3) Single arbitration matters to he submitted to a determining body to be selected, which must report within two months. 'These matters to include, firstly, the rates of wages at the end of the temporary period, based on the industry’s capacity in each district, and a subsistence wage to the lowest paid workers also on the possibilities of increasing the output. Secondly, a minimum standard wage in each district. Thirdly, a. proportion as of profits to wages in the distribution of tlio proceeds of the industry. The determining body's decision to be binding to twelve months on both parties; and thereafter to lie subject to three months’ notice on either side.

It is unofficially reported that Mr Lloyd George lias informed the miners that the question of a National Pool of wages and profits; and also any scheme for the amalgamation of collieries has absolutely been ruled out of present or future consideration He added emphatically that if the miners and owners failed to reach an agreement, then Parliament would he immediately asked to legislate to compel both parties to arbitrate. The dispute could not be permitted to continue.

MINERS’ DECISION

LONDON, May 28. The Miners’ Federation officially announces that the proposals of the Government are to b 0 referred to the District Associations. Tlie Government estimate that if the miners return to work forthwith under the Government's scheme they will lose 2/6 per shift during the month of June; 3/- per shift in July; 3/6 per shift in August; and 4/- per shift in September. The Government add that increased production may render tho wages nearly normal. THE COAL OFFER. LONDON, May 28. The coal owners decided to refer Hon I .lo.yd George’s proposals to tlie District Associations. A' conference of locomotive engineers decided in view of Government’s assurance that foreign coni be used only for essential services, that the suspended members be instructed to resume duty immediately.

A ballot of operative spinners show that ninety-five per cent, are against accepting the. employers’ proposed reduction of thirty per cent, in wages. Mills employing half a million workers will close down on June 4th unless an agreement is reached.