BRITISH COAL CRISIS

Hokitika Guardian, 22 July 1925, Page 2

BRITISH COAL CRISIS

[Australia A N.Z. Cable Association/ LONDON, July 20. It is learned that discussions which may lead to important developments in Lhe coal dispute are being held behind the scenes. It is suggested that possibly the owners will withdraw the notices in order to enable open discussion at t fie court of inquiry into the local dispute. McMillan announced the .Miners’ Federation refused the invitation to attend the inquiry. He emphasised the Court was not going to deal solely with wages and hours of the coal industry. hut to investigate the causes and remedies for the troubles of the industry. lie therefore regretted the .Miners’ Federation did not see its way to assist investigation, lie emphasised the miners were not asking for a withdrawal or cancellation of the present agreement, but a withdrawal! of the owners proposals. In a speech at Middleshorough. the Labourite Commoner Rockett said if the miners were locked out and the Government adopted military or other means, the Labourites would refuse to spend their time in the Commons but would go into the country to create a rebel spirit wherever they went. LONDON. July 21. The “ Diiilv Herald " understands that steps were taken late last night to enable the Prime Minister to gel into personal lunch with the leaders of the miners and of the coal owners. Mr Cook (Secretary of the Miners’ Federation), in a statement in the " Daily Herald,’’ says: ft the coal owners were to inform the miners that their proposals had been withdrawn, a meeting could lie arranged forthwith.