Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 6 October 1893
Meeting of Denaby Main Unemployed
A deputation of the unemployed at Cadeby New Colliery—belonging to the Denaby Main Colliery Company—waited upon the manager on Tuesday, and asked that the men should be allowed to resume work at the old rate of wages, but they were informed that their application could not be entertained.
On Wednesday morning a largely attended meeting of the unemployed at Denaby Main was held at the lodge room, Mexborough, to consider the situation.
Mr. T. Croft, the chairman, said the men were undoubtedly as firmly opposed to a wage reduction as they were ten weeks ago. They believed it was not so much a question of reducing wages, but of opposing “Ben Pickard and party.” It had been previously said that capital regulated wages, but the power was in the hands of “Ben Pickard & Co.” The miners had no wish to have the whole control in the matter, but they did claim to a fair living wage. (Cheers.)
He was glad the Forest of Dean men had been able to resume work at the old rate of wages, and that the miners in Warwickshire had declined to accept the invitation to work at a 15 per cent. drop. He was afraid the masters in Yorkshire were bent on starving the men back to work; but, notwithstanding the prevailing poverty, both the men and their wives were resolute enough not to accept the proposed wage reduction. (Cheers.)
Mr. J. Nolan moved a resolution approving of the action of the Miners’ Federation, and determining to “fight to the bitter end.” He referred to his recent visit to the North, and to the harsh treatment received from some lodge officials, whereas others were quite kindly disposed.
Mr. Marriot seconded the motion, and said they were accustomed to fighting at Denaby Main, and especially in view of the evictions eight years ago.
Mr. J. Dixon supported the resolution. He dwelt particularly on the question of arbitration, and referred to the remarks of Judge Ellison in giving his award. He Hon. Judge remarked, amongst other things, that:
“Having perused and considered all the documents laid before me, and having fully heard all parties on two occasions, I have come to the conclusion that the demand made by the owners to reduce the wages of the miners is not made out.”
If the coalowners had acted honourably on that occasion, there was no doubt the Barnsley officials and the branch officials of that locality would have recommended arbitration on the present occasion.
However, he was still hopeful that the struggle would terminate satisfactorily for the men. (Cheers.)
The resolution was carried unanimously.
Some miners inquired in reference to the continuation schools at Mexborough, and whether they would be enabled to receive instruction at them.
Mr. Dixon replied to the effect that Denaby Main would be included in the scheme of the Mexborough School Board, the fees would be nominal, and he thought miners ought to have an opportunity of attending for the purpose of mental improvement.