Cotton We have written elsewhere of the complete deadlock in
the cotton industry, as between the organized employers and employees. This does not mean, of course, that all mills are closed, since those firms which are organized on up-to-date lines—especially those which have exploited the advantages of the vertical combine—are well able to carry on without calling for any reduction of the men's wages. The latest "peace move" seems likely to be a reversal of the employers' decision (of July 27th) against arbitration. But before the employers give proof of any such "change of heart" we may expect that they will require a collective declaration from the operatives of all branches of the industry to the effect that their (the workers') original offer still stands. In the present temper of the Trade Unions it is by no means certain that this will be forthcoming. In any case, as we have stated repeatedly, a temporary settlement is all that can be expected now ; let it be such as will enable the Government's Committee of Inquiry to go ahead, and to effect a thorough reorganization of our greatest export industry in the light of present world conditions.
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