MINERS’ DEMANDS.

Taranaki Daily News, 28 February 1921, Page 5

MINERS’ DEMANDS.

DECISION OF EMPLOYERS. WITHDRAWAL BEFORE CONFERENCE. By T®leEranh. —Press Association. Wellington, Feb. 26. The demands for a new agreement made by the Miners’ Federation have been considered by the executive of the Mine Owners’ Association. The latter, in reply, draw particular attention to the inclusion of the following points: ( ( 1) Abolition of contract system; (2) six-hour day from bank to bank; (8) five days’ week: (4) abortion of afternoon shift; (5) payment for holidays and payment for time lost (minimum weekly wage) It was pointed out that these claims were considered at conferences held in August, 1919, and February, 1920. The employers then took up the position that they were so revolutionary and far-fetched, and would result, if granted, in such a great increase in the price of coal to the general public, that unless they were withdrawn by the federation the employers would not proceed with the conference. They were finally withdrawn, and the conference proceeded. Since February last year nothing has happened to warrant the being again brought forward. Indeed, the contrary was the case. Similar demands had not been conceded by the Australian coal-mine owners. Again, the Broken Hill strike arose over the insistence upon similar demands, which were adversely reported upon by a special Government tribunal. Tn face of these facts, the executive decided that until the particular demands’ were withdrawn it would be unfair to the general public and useless to enter into any discussion with the federation. If these demands were withdrawn the executive would be pleased to arrange a conference at the earliest possible date. The holding of a conference would not necessarily mean that the owners are prepared to enter into a national agreement. The owners consider the results of the existing national agreement unsatisfactory, and that local and district agreements are the only solution in vi?w of the varied conditions in New Zealand mines.