The Coal Mines Bill In so far as the new
Coal Mines Bill prolongs the 7i-hour day until the seven coal-producing countries ratify their Geneva agreement for a 7k-hour day, the measure averts an imminent crisis. But for the Bill, the Seven-Hour Act would come into force on July 8th, wages would have to be reduced, and trouble would result as miners' wages are already very low. It has also to be noted that Mr. Runciman has secured an undertaking from the coal- owners to maintain the present rates of wages for a year. But in other respects the Bill pleases no one and does nothing to improve the position of a sorely-tried industry. The quota system in principle has many supporters, as an initial step towards future agreements with the coun- tries that compete with us in the coal trade. But the quota in practice has worked badly, and in its present form ought not to be given so long a lease of life as five years. We can believe the North-country Members who say that red tape in the administration of the quota causes orders to be lost, and that uneconomic pits are kept at work when they ought to be closed. * * * *
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