The Ministry of,Mines Bill was read a second time in
the House of Commons on Wednesday by 217 votes to 91. The miners Members denounced it hotly on the ground that the establish- ment of area boards for fixing wages within each area would break up the unity of the Miners' Federation. But Sir Robert Home pointed out that the standard minimum wages had always varied from one district to another. It was further urged that the revenue of the mines should continue to be pooled, so that the loss on unprofitable pits might be set off against the large profits from rich collieries. The Bill was also opposed by disinterested Members as involving the creation of an unneces- sary Ministry. There is substance in this objection, but the establishment of joint committees of coal-owners and miners throughout the industry ought to make for peaoa—if the miners' leaders really desire peace.
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