CO129-581-16 British propaganda in Hong Kong 18-4-1939 - 29-10-1939 — Page 73

18.

73

V. 756

Coal in War Time.

Weekly London Letter.

By Andrew Blackmore.

In every field of industrial activity there are increasing

signs of Britain's national readiness to meet the needs of war, if

such a catastrophe as war should occur. In regard to coal, one of

the most vital needs of a nation either in peace or war, the whole

problem of production, distribution, and price has been considered

and a system of control repared.

A scheme for complete control of coal supplies could be put in

force within twenty-four hours. It is not merely a paper scheme;

the machinery is all ready. Controlling officers for both product-

ion and distribution have been appointed, and each of them has

become fully acquainted with his duty in case of emergency.

War would immediately increase demand, and possibly Britain

would be called upon to supply not only her own needs, but at any

rate part of the requirements of her allies. Production might

have to be speeded up. The labour needed for coal-mining has

therefore been safeguarded in the schedule of reserved occupations.

The coal industry is now extensively mechanised, so it has been

necessary also to ensure the supply of adequate machinery.

If necessary, coal will be rationed. hould supplies fall

short of demand, priority will be given to those undertakings which

are of the greatest national importance. The scheme thus aims at

securing national requirements, without fail, and maintaining

reasonable prices and fairness of distribution to all consumers,

while subjecting both producers and consumers to the restrictions

necessary to a victorious outcome if hositlities should occur.