AUSTRALIAN COAL STRIKE

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIII, 1 August 1929, Page 5

AUSTRALIAN COAL STRIKE

MINERS’ OVERTURES FOR RESUMPTION OF NEGOTIATIONS (United Press Association— By Electrlo Telegraph—Copyright) SYDNEY, 31st July. Indications point to an early settlement of the coal strike as the result of the expressed desire of th e l miners’ representatives for a compromise and the pressure of business people for the reopening' of the mines in order to avoid bankruptcy. The commission to-day issued a statement defining the basis of profits, and the procedure it intended to adopt in arriving at a decision in this regard. The miners’ representatives, however, declare that there is no guarantee that the commission’s findings will he binding on either side. They are not anxious to await its ultimate conclusions, therefore overtures will be made during the weekend to the mine owners for the resumption of negotiations for a settlement. It is expected that a recommendation to accept the owners’ bedrock terms will be approved by a full meeting of representatives of the engine-drivers and mine employees on Friday night. 'i GAS POSITION BECOMING CRITICAL (Received Ist August, 9.20 a.mj NEWCASTLE, This. Day. Further trouble is expected by gas companies which are experiencing difficulty in securing gas making coal. The Government stacks at Fort Waratah, from which the coal is obtained, are sadly depleted. There is only about a month’s supply left. A critical position may occur unless a new source is found shortly.