§ 27. Mr. ADAMSONasked the Secretary for Mines whether he has any information regarding the stoppage of work at the Nook and Great Wyrley Colliery, in South Staffordshire, in which 200 mine workers are involved; whether he has ascertained if the failure by the company to pay the recent increase of wages is responsible; and whether his Department has taken any action in the matter?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI am informed that owing to the refusal of the owner to pay the increase in the district percentage recently awarded under the provisions of the Cannock Chase District wage agreement, the workmen employed at this colliery ceased work on 21st March. The colliery is a non-associated one, and I understand that the owner claims that he is not bound by the terms of the district agreement. However, I am now informed that work is to be resumed as from to-morrow night.
§ Mr. ADAMSONCan the Secretary for Mines say on what terms work is being resumed?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKNo, Sir.
§ Mr. ADAMSONWill he make inquiries?
§ Captain CROOKSHANKI imagine that they are satisfactory to the persons concerned, otherwise work would not be resumed.