Tweet

---

May, 1960

---

Technical progress in the Durham Division was outlined by Dr. W. Reid, Divisional Chairman, at a recent conference with local newspaper editors in Durham City.

He said that during last year overall productivity had increased from 20.7 cwts. per manshift to 21.5 cwts. per manshift. "While this is an encouraging advance in an elderly coalfield," said Dr. Reid, we are not complacent about the situation. All concerned with the industry in County Durham are determined that this upward trend shall continue in order to make the Division more competitive, and we have set our sights on at least 22.1 cwts. per manshift by the end of this year.

The percentage of power loading increased in 1959 from 19.78 to 27.36, and the face O.M.S. from power loading reached 5.05 tons against 4.47 tons at the beginning of the year. O.M.S. on other faces was 3.5 tons.

Dr. Reid said that Durham’s policy of providing continuity of employment, as far as possible, for those already in the industry, would be continued. The Division’s labour force would be reduced during the year by 4,000 of whom 1,000 would be men over 65 years of age. The balance would be further reduced by normal wastage. Durham had a good record in matters of redundancy, for every effort was made to secure alternative employment for a redundant worker, and there was close co-operation with the appropriate Government ministries to this end.

In order to maintain continuity of employment, however, some redeployment of manpower would be necessary, involving the transfer of men from the declining pits to the developing collieries. The co-operation of all concerned was required in these moves essential to the well-being of the industry in the county.

"Every effort is being made to increase our sales of both coal and coke, especially in the overseas markets," declared Dr. Reid. " Our marketing representatives have made some useful contacts abroad, and while the amount of new business received is limited it is encouraging. We are building up our sales and technical services to give expert advice to solid fuel users and potential users and, already, there is a considerable demand for this service. Quality, service and cost will be the deciding factors in competition with other fuels," added Dr. Reid, "and we must see that our products do not suffer in these respects." Costs had already been cut, administrative as well as operational, and the drive to economise, and increase efficiency would be pursued with the utmost vigour.