SHORTAGE OF COAL.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 April 1917, Page 2

SHORTAGE OF COAL.

POSITION AT THEvHOSPITAL. The effects of tlic coal strike arc likely to be seriously felt at the New Plymouth hospital, in common probably with oilier hospitals, as an ample supply of hot water is an essentiality at these institutions. The matter, was discussed at the meeting of the Hospital Board yesterday, with a view to providing against contingencies. The matter was introduced by Mr. Maxwell, who asked in view of the present position what coal the board had in stock. The chairman stated that the stock in hand would probably last a week.* An additional ten tons had been ordered, but it was doubtful whether''tlie contractor would be.able to deliver .this. The contractor was doing his best to meet their requircmorfß; but ho could not "do impossibilities. They would have to do whatever they could by procuring firewood. The position was a very serious one, and it made one wonder whether (hero were not some insane people in connection with eoal. Mr. .Maxwell said that it would be we.; for the board to nrrange for a contingent supply of firewood. If it was not-needed, it could be sold. Even if they made a loss over- the sale, it would bo far better than risking a shortage. The -chairman pointed out that the board had pine trees suflieient to supply hundreds of "cords of firewood. Mr, Maxwell thought it would be advisable to cut this up. If freezing works ran out of coal cattle could be turned out to grass, but they could not turn patients.out of tho hospital. He would sugaest that the house, committee be given power' to take any steps necessary. This was agreed to, Mr. Brown said that the position nn doubtedly would be serious. All dairy factories, etc., would also be stuck up for coal.