The Coal Commission is on the eve of beginning its
public sessions. The Miners' Federation is now expected to take part in them, and no one can deny the force of Mr. Herbert Smitles contention that it is its duty to do so. The miners were parties to setting up the Commission and they have. claimed to have remedies for the present distress, which no one will believe if they hug them secretly in their bosom. The delegates of the Federation met in Conference last week and passed a resolution authorizing participation if certain alleged grievances are recognized. These turn upon the agreement reached at the end of July when the Prime Minister assented to the subvention. It was understood that if the subvention was given, wages would not be reduced, but also that the old wages agreement should remain in force. If these understandings conflict, if under the wages agreement any reductions become due, what interpretation of the new agreement is to prevail ? Mr. Smith conducted the Con- ference well and begged his friends to spare the firebrand, Mr. Cook, any invitation to make speeches. This was for the good of his health, but there is a suspicion that the miners fear lest one Cook should be enough to spoil their broth. * * *
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