INDUSTRIAL UNREST.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXII, Issue 56, 1 March 1912, Page 6

INDUSTRIAL UNREST.

. WH4-T GERMANS WILL DO. iw: Received il, fi,m.) ; ; iiV3Va<j. f .v.- ‘ Berlin,''Felmuai-y’'29? '■ i .Qgzette” states that . Westphalian .mine ownwilt not ■ send coat to England but hope to capture certain German markets where English coal preponderates. ’ -

PROPOSED WAGES BOARD. (Received 1, 11.5 a.m.) London, Februray 29. -The, miners’ conference to-day tresolved to maintain their demands, ■including schedule rates for each distinct for individual .minimum wage. .The strikers :are observing a holiday 'spirit, without a display of\ill-feel-ing. r ■■■ V :

The “Westminster ‘ Gazette” recommends after a temporary settlement the appointment of a commissioner or joint board to consider the whole condition of the industry and the recoupment of owners', 'not-neces-sarily from profits, but possibly from increased efficiency of labour and better equipment of mines or an increase of price to the public. It also states that permanent peace would be impossible unless both sides approach the question as a matter affecting their joint interests.

The Admiralty is discussing the purchase of some South Wales collieries. The Government has drafted a Bill establishing wages boards of coal owners and men for the settlement of the minimum wage, with Mr Asquith as umpire in the event of deadlock. It is expected that Labour will support the Bill arid that the Opposition will not oppose it. Mr .Churchill, replying to Mr T3urgoyne, member for Kensington, as to delay in delivery of armourplates for the warships Australia and New Zealand, said it was attributable to contractors’ unforeseen difficulties and the completion of the ships could not he! forecasted. There are 8000 miners idle. The miners’ leaders are jubilant at the Government’s recognition of the principle of the minimum wage. ~