Pit closures put NUM on spot

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On Friday 3rd the Coal Board announced that Bogside colliery would join the long list of closed pits. (Picance work had not been done, the Coal Board said, the pit was in bad condition.

Bogside miners to accept transfers to other pits, and then to organise a forlorn campaign for the redevelopWOMEN'S the action to Monday 13th, under pressure from the area union leadership, which is dominated by the announced late in January. The Polmaise miners had voted to strike from Monday 6th, but agreed to put off FIGHTBACK OD Meanwhile, despite much press agitation after the close result of the ballot for NUM general secretary, end. This compares with 12,000 on Monday January 30, and 19,000 on January 23 (Coal Board figures). the Coal Board's or the Electricity Board's, but certainly stocks are still high. ed their faith in the overtime ban, and said it is proving effective. Their estimate of coal stocks is lower than With the Coal Board becoming more aggressive, it is more and more urgent The nightmare e latest Women's Fightback - 10p *n 106 Landseer Road, London N19. 16p the US "can buy more defence for every dollar they invest in Israel than in any other way -and all without risking one American life."

For the working class in upping the stakes. Israel, however, this economic structure means incredible inflation rates - prices went up about 80% in October, 60% each in November and December - and the threat now of ment of Bogside. drastic cuts in social spending.

Bosses' medicine BY 1983, 65% of all managers were receiving free private medical insurance as a fringe benefit from their employers. In 1978 it was only 44%. the NUM's.

Other fringe benefits have also increased: 94% of managers now have subsidised life assurance, 83% a company car or car allowance, and 67% subsidised lunches.

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Socialist Organiser no. 165 February 1984 Page 1 Industrial