STAGES INCREASE URGED.

Shannon News, 2 March 1923, Page 4

STAGES INCREASE URGED.

HAVE BEEN* STARVING FOR A YEAR. , “WE CAN DO NOTHING.” (Received Friday, 2 a.m.) LONDON, March 1. Mr Herbert Smith, of the Miners’ Federation, in leading a deputation to Mr Bonar Law demanding an enquiry into the miners’ pay and conditions, said it was imperative there should be a' grant of early relief to the miners, whose wages hs.d been constantly graded down. Mr Prank Hodges said the miners* wages, expressed in terms of the cost of living, were the lowest of any similarly calculated wages in Europe. Mr Bonar Law contended that an enquiry now,'when the l coal trade was booming, would be foolish. Coal prices would soon produce better wages. ' Mr Hartshorn stated the miners had been starving since November, 1921. Mr Hodge: “It is like asking men to wait for the hearse to come." Mr Walsh, in supporting the plea for an increase, said: "If it does not materialise, shall we come to you again with newer facts?", Mr Bonar Law: "If you like, but you must give the boom time to show distinct results. We are not prepared for an enquiry yet, and can, do nothing." 0 ;