11 SEPTEMBER 1926, Page 2

If we arc not mistaken, Mr. Churchill in his present

mood will apply pressure if necessary. What sort of pressure ? The Government could repeal the Hours Act, or under the special legislation with which they are fortified they could take over control of the mines. We hope and believe that no such application of force will be necessary. It is, as Lord Grey of Fallodon has pointed out in his liberal-minded way, not undesirable to give miners the choice between a little more work and a little less pay. But the national agreement is essential. We must not get further away than we can possibly help from the Coal Report, and if there can be a bodily return to it so much the better. The Mining Association cannot be allowed to lead a robust and active life when it can serve its own purposes, but to sham dead when the only prospect is that it will be required to place its interests below those of the naticn..