BRITISH MINERS.

Taranaki Daily News, 16 February 1920, Page 5

BRITISH MINERS.

"A STRIKE INEVITABLE."

GOVERNMENT STORING COAL.

| By Telegraph.—Presa Assn.—Copyright, Received Feb. 15, 5.5 p.m. . London, Feb, 13. The Cardiff correspondent of the Westminster Gazette says that the ler.'iing unionists of Smith Wales agree that an early strike, for the purpose of enforcing nationalisation, is inevitable. The owners say there will be 110 peace until the unions' fighting fund is exhausted. It appears that the Government is quietly preparing for several weeks, is buying every scrap of coal available, and is accumulating reserves in Liverpool and other centres. —Aus.N.2. Cable Assn. PEACEABLE DISCUSSION LIKELY. ATTITUDE OF THE UNIONS. Received Feb. 15, 5.5 p.m. London, Feb. 11. The Daily Express states that Trades Unions will generally withhold their support from the miners if the latter attempt "direct action." The early introduction of the flovernment's coal proposals may give an opportunity of a peaceable discussion on the issue involved before a minerc' ballot is taken.— Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. DIRECT ACTION POSSIBLE. ' London, Feb. 13. Mr. Hartshorn, M.P., leader of the South Wales miners, caused a mild sensation by asserting in the House of Commons that the rejection of nationalisation of the faines meant that the miners would soon take direct action. Other leaders do not believe the miners will strike, though they admit the situation requires careful handling. There will be much discussion before the miners' policy is settled. The federation executive will rtieet next week, and will summon a National Conference." There will also be a conference of the executive w'th the Parliamentary Committee of the Trade Union Congress. These deliberations must absorb several weeks, and a strike could not occur under two months. Besides, it is improbable that the miners will strike without the consent. of the Triple Alliance, which it Is extremely doubtful that they will get. A possible alternative for "a strike is a demand for more wages. South Wales miners are already demanding 50 pes cent, increase.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.