The Point of Ayr Collieries
Members of the House of Commons quite properly pressed Major Lloyd George for an explanation of his action in taking over control of the Point of Ayr Collieries, which it ti now clear did turn upon the attitude of the collieries to the Mineworkers' Federation. His statement clarified the position, which might have been left in doubt by Mr. Justice Singleton's comments, and shows that the Minister was fully justified in using his special powers. The suggestion that he had acted in a hurry or without full inquiry, and that the company were unaware of all the points at issue, is completely disproved. The Mineworkers' Federation have long had reason to complain that their members employed at the collieries were refused the rights which were conceded at all other collieries, and the company had rejected the good offices of the North Wales Coalowners' Association for removing friction which threatened to disturb the whole district. An independent investigation made by Sir John Forster led to the conclusion that if the causes of friction were not removed there might be trouble throughout the coalfield. In war-time there can be no question of allowing a dispute of this kind to be fought out, possibly with stoppages of work. It is the Minister's duty to ensure that supplies are not endangered. The fact that they were endangered is a sufficient justification for his action. It is a pity it should have been necessary.
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