THE MINERS’ CONFERENCE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2642, 26 October 1909, Page 7

THE MINERS’ CONFERENCE.

DEPUTATION TO PRIME MINISTER. I'Pkr Puks's Association.] WELLINGTON, Oct. 25. A deputation from the Miners’ Conference waited on the Prime Minister to-day in support of the resolutions carried .at the recent conference. It was stated that miners were thankful to the Cabinet for taking up the stand it did last year on the question of medical examination. " No doubt the action was responsible 'for preventing one of the greatest revolutions the country had ever known. Sir Joseph Ward, in reply.. said lie was glad thoso connected with the industry appreciated the action of the Government. One of the most important questions raised by the deputation had reference to the ventilation in mines. He thought the suggestion that a Royal Commission should be set up was a good one, and the Government would favorably consider the pro■posal. He did not think the Government would be justified in continuing the system of giving) a guarantee ‘to bade the State Insurance Department in covering risks against pneumoconiosis. It was decided to bring down an amendment to the Act, which would mean the striking out of the clause relating to pneumoconiosis, and also it would abolish the system, of medical examination in the case of all miners over 16 years.