The Threatened Coal Strike The dispute between masters and men
in South Wales is now receiving the attention of the Secretary for Mines, and it is quite time it did. As with the Irish annuities trouble two questions are involved, the original matter in dispute—in this case wages—and the method of settlement. The men followed perfectly correct procedure in bringing the matter before the National Industrial Board, and arc asking that the recommenda- tions of the Board, which gave them less than they had demanded, be carried out. The masters, who refused to have anything to do with the Board, and dallied quite indefensibly with the direct negotiations which were proposed as an alternative, now produce figures going to show that the desired wage-increases are impossible. They do, however, suggest arbitration, and are apparently ready to abide by the result. But the choice of arbitrators and the method of appointing them has led to deadlock, and there will be a stoppage of work, of which the men gave notice a month ago, on September 80th, unless prompt steps are taken to avert it. The Secretary for Mines or the Minister of Labour ought to be capable of getting an arbitration tribunal acceptable to both sides constituted.
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