Dearie:Russell Family History

Marriage certificate. DURBAN NATAL. 23 January 1939 William Gemmell age 53 born in Scotland, Divorcee, Occupation: Manager, living at Rand Club, Johannesburg to Kathleen Gertrude Russell, form Archer aged 34, Widow,born in the West Indies, living at Hotel Edward, Durban, by special marriage licence, with antenuptial contract. Witnesses: J.S. WOODHEAD, G.N.GRACE, Durban Magistrate: E.R. WILMOT.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser , 30 January 1939, Page 11  Mrs. A. E. Llewellyn, wife of Mr. A. E. Llewellyn, of Malayan Collieries, Kuala Lumpur, gave birth to a son (Roger Stewart) at Doncaster, Yorks, on Jan. 19, writes our London Correspondent

The Straits Times, 13 March 1939, Page 7 UTAN SIMPAN RUBBER'S PROFIT FALLS SHARPLY $6,732 Last Year Compared With $85,308 In 1937 DIVIDEND REDUCED FROM 15 TO I ½ PER CENT. A NET profit of $6,732 was earned by Utan Simpan Rubber Co., Ltd., in the year ended December last. . (Directors report, Board consists of Messrs D. H. Hampshire, V.G.A. Reeve Tucker and J. H. Clarkson.) (436 words)

The Straits Times, 21 March 1939, Page 4, The Straits Times, 22 March 1939, Page 7,The Straits Times, 23 March 1939, Page 7  MALAYAN COLLIERIES LTD. (Incorporated In the F.M S.) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Twenty-Fifth Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Company will be held at the Registered Office of the Company, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur, on Friday, 31st March 1939 at noon. (Etc.). By Order of the Board, J. A. Russell and Co.Ltd. K.L. 20th March, 1939

The Straits Times, 24 March 1939, Page 12  COLLIERIES’ 1938 PROFIT. $551,000 Made In Difficult Year By the Straits Times Financial Correspondent. MALAYAN Collieries Ltd., the only company of its kind in Malaya, earned more than half a million dollars last year. The report and accounts were issued this morning and show that the net profit was $551,139, which, although a reduction on the preceding year’s figure of $659,949, is satisfactory when it is recalled that 1938 was a difficult year for Malayan Trade generally. In spite of this decline in profit, the directors recommend a final dividend of 6 per cent. which with the interims paid during the year, makes a total of 15 per cent for the year and only 1 per cent less than paid for 1937. Decrease In Sales. The directors report that the quantity of coal sold during 1938 showed a substantial decrease and the 1937 figure and sales in the subsidiary sections were similarly affected by the general restriction in trade. The general managers report that labour conditions in all sections were satisfactory and the tri-monthly system of individual payments was extended to all employees. The company produces coal, bricks, plywood for making packing cases, and has a wood distillation plant.  

The Straits Times, 25 March 1939, Page 7  MALAYAN COLLIERIES LTD. EARNS $551,139. Final Dividend Of 6 Per Cent Making 15 For Year. $127,934 ROYALTIES PAID TO F.M.S. GOVERNMENT. A NET profit $551,139 was earned by Malayan Collieries Ltd. in the year ended Dec. 31 last. This compares with $656,949 in the preceding year. Three interim dividends of 3 per cent each were paid and absorbed $309,006 and the directors propose a final dividend of 6 per cent. which, if approved, will require $206,004. The divided paid for 1937 was 16 per cent. The amount brought forward from 1937 was $363,414 and it is proposed to carry forward $379,544 to 1939 if the dividend proposals are approved and after charging $20,000 for directors’ fees. The report of the directors sates that the quantity of coal sold during the year showed a substantial decrease on the figure for 1937 and sales in the subsidiary sections were similarly affected by the general restriction in trade. Capital expenditure during the year was of a general nature the principal item being mining equipment, mostly associated with mechanised working. The Board consists of Messrs. H.H. Robbins, chairman, F. Cunningham, W. H. Martin, A. W. Delamore and J. Drysdale. Messrs. Delamore and Drysdale retire but offer themselves for re-election and Evatt and Co. offer themselves for reappointment as auditors. The annual meeting is to be held in Kuala Lumpur on Friday. Balance Sheet. The balance sheet shows the nominal capital at $4,000,000 in shares of $10 each of which 343.340 have been issued and fully-paid. Other liabilities at the end of the year were: - dividends unclaimed $12,122; sundry creditors and credit balances, $138,775; general reserve, $1,200,000; and amortisation fund, $981, 250. The assets at Dec. 31 were: - property, leasehold, $1,100,000; buildings, $632,495; general plant, colliery and subsidiary undertakings, $2,827,505; operating stores, spares and trading stocks, $1,034,458; sundry debtors and debit balances, $200,453; investments (nature not shown) at cost, $157, 830, market value at Dec. 31, $168,970 and cash $418,354. The profit and loss account shows the total revenue for the year was $3,717,288. Working expenditure, rail freight, delivery and prospecting expenditure totalled $2,721,621; Government royalties totalled $127,934; amortisation charged is $50,000 and depreciation charged totalled $266,593, leaving a net profit of $551,139.

The Straits Times, 1 April 1939, Page 7  • COLLIERIES CHAIRMAN VIEWS FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE Period Of Development And Substantial Progress MR. H. H. ROBBINS ON MALAYAN LABOUR PROBLEMS & The Straits Times, 1 April 1939, Page 7 LOCAL INDUSTRIES IN TIME OF WAR & THE MALAY MAIL, FRIDAY, MARCH 31, 1939

LABOUR POSITION AT MALAYAN COLLIERIES

COMPLICATED BY SURPLUS LAST YEAR

Chairman’s Review At Annual Meeting This Morning

QUIET CONFIDENCE AS DISTINCT FROM OPTIMISM

INTERESTING references to the revision of conditions of employment of labour employed at Malayan Collieries were made by Mr. H. H. Robbins (chairman), at the annual general meeting of the company held in Kuala Lumpur this morning. Mr. Robbins pointed out that the maximum possible force had been retained by restricting the number of working days per individual to the number necessary to provide him with something more than sufficient to satisfy his actual needs.

Mr. Robbins said that they had succeeded in placing the general body of the labour force in a position of absolute freedom as regards earnings, but this had not always been attended by a proper regard for thrift. A very marked improvement in the sex ration amongst the Chinese bade well to solve the problem by providing facilities for the assumption of home and family ties and the development of that good husbandry which was so traditional a characteristic of the Chinese.

“I am pleased to welcome you to this the 25th annual general meeting of this company, and to be able to report on what I trust you will regard as a successful year. The report and accounts have been in your hands for the prescribed period, and with your permission I will take them as read.

“It will be seen that the capital remained unaltered at the figure of $3,433,400.00 to which it was increased during 1937.

“Dividends unclaimed at $12,122.47 are about normal. Sundry creditors and credit balances at $138,775.39 are very substantially down, due to the smaller turnover and to the curtailment of purchases during the last quarter of the year. The general reserve remains unaltered. The Amortisation Fund is higher by the $50,000 provided in respect of the year under review.

“On the Assets side, leasehold property at $1,200.000 is less by the $100,000 sanctioned at the last general meeting.

Buildings were added to by the expenditure of $55,783.79 on erections of a permanent nature and the total figure, after depreciation amounting to $33,289.19 is $632,494.60. The major part of the programme for the replacement of temporary buildings has now been carried out, and the work remaining will be put in hand as and when funds are conveniently available.

COLLIERY PLANT

“General plant of the colliery and subsidiary undertakings was added to by the expenditure of $453,761.91 which after depreciation amounting to $233,304.11, leaves a total figure of $2,827,505.40. The plant installed was again almost entirely in respect of the colliery undertaking and in continuation of the previous year’s programme.

“Operating stores and spares and trading stocks at $1,034,457.62 was only $24,159.89 less than the figure for the previous year, the high figure being due to the advisability under present world conditions of carrying very full stocks of spares and of not readily obtainable stores, which include manufacturing materials for the plywood section,

Sundry debtors and debit balances at $200,452.93 is less by $137,585.06, this again being due to the smaller turnover.

“Investments at $157,829.86 remain unchanged, the market value at $168.970 being rather less than at the end of the previous year. Cash at bankers and in hand at $418.354.33 was down by $296,436.12 as a result of the expenditure, on capital works, of the balance derived from the 1937 issue of shares.

PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT

“The Profit and Loss and Trading Account shows a profit of $551,139.43, a figure lower than the previous year by $105,809.32, but in conformity with my hope when last addressing you, that we should achieve a somewhat reduced ratio of expenditure to profit on a smaller volume of sales.

“The year opened with hopes that the improvement in world trade enjoyed during 1937 might continue, but as the months passed it became evident that this was not to be and, at the close, the average percentage of releases under tin and rubber control were lower than during any year since 1934. Adjustment to the fluctuating economic conditions is one of the major problems of those responsible for the conduct of the industry in this country and the year under review called for considerable adjustment. It was, however, a year of progress and development.

LABOUR POSITION

“The labour position generally during the year was complicated, but this time by a surplus of labour, especially surface labour, of which there was much more available than required. While a considerable reduction in the number employed was inevitable, the maximum possible force has been retained by restricting the number of working days per individual to the number necessary to provide him with something more than sufficient to satisfy his actual needs. The revision of the conditions of employment of labour mentioned last year was continued, and with the elimination of the last of the contractors of any consequence, and the extension of the system of trimonthly individual payment to practically all concerned, the re-organisation commenced in the previous year was continued and the system in many ways improved.

“Notwithstanding progress with mechanisation, we continue to rank among the more important employers of labour in the country, so that any question affecting labour is of primary importance to us, and any step that we can take to further its interests, a matter of fundamental policy. Though much has been done to benefit the lot of individual workmen by breaking away from age old practice, much remains to be done, and it is only by constant vigilance and close observance of the results of changes, that the perfect system can ultimately be evolved.

“We have succeeded in placing the general body of our labour force in a position of absolute freedom as regards earnings, but this has not always been attended by a proper regard for thrift, especially on the part of the average workman living alone. The facilities offered by the Government Savings Bank are not greatly availed of, nor have offers by the company to create deposit accounts in the interests of individual frugality, been enthusiastically received. Further efforts are to be made, but meantime the very marked improvement of the sex ratio amongst our Chinese labour force bids well to solve the problem, by providing facilities for the assumption of home and family ties and the development of that good husbandry which is so traditional a characteristic of the Chinese. This is having a beneficial effect upon the degree of self-sufficiency in the matter of foodstuffs which is being attained at Batu Arang. To augment this, and as a safeguard against an unhappy outcome of the present strained international position, stocks of rice, sufficient for our labour force and their direct dependents for several months, have been provided for.

COAL DEMAND DECLINING

“With the falling off of prosperity, especially in the tin mining industry, and the consequent heavy decline in the demand for our coal, it became apparent that the high wages and piecework rates agreed during the short-lived prosperity of 1937 could not be maintained, and ways and means of adjusting these without depriving the labour of the advantages gained were sought. The fortunes of this company being a very fair barometer of the condition of the country generally, it was decided to adopt the sales of coal and the wages and piecework rates in force at the peak of 1937 prosperity, as the basis of a sliding scale for payment.

“All earnings are calculated on this basis and made subject to a percentage increase or decrease, according to whether the tonnage sold over the immediately preceding month is higher or lower than during the peak month of 1937. This has the advantage of eliminating the personal factor in the adjustment of rates to conditions, and so any suggestion of a time lag, intentional or otherwise, in the restoration of cuts; a factor which has been held responsible, the world over, for much industrial unrest.

ADJUSTMENT OF PAY RATES

“The scale adopted in this method of adjustment does not restore to us anything like former rates and conditions, and in addition we have the extra heavy cost of administering the revised system of labour control. These factors must inevitably be accepted, and in any case it would seem that too much attention is being given in industry to rates of wages paid per day or per hour, instead of the amount of work done per man per day or per hour, which is ultimately the determining factor in the basic cost of production. It is by a revision of methods and the introduction of mechanical aids to increase the capacity per man, that we hope to counteract, partially at least, the increased labour cost per ton of coal produced. Given an economical demand, this, we feel, can be achieved; but with the severe falling of in demand incidental to the present low releases under the Tin and Rubber Restriction Enactments, the problem of keeping surplus labour employed and of spreading fixed charges, looms large. This position is of particular interest because the increased costs have had to be met without any corresponding increases under some of our larger contracts to supply coal at very keenly negotiated prices, the result being an unbalance of the ratio of profit to turnover on colliery account. Nowadays we work on comparatively fine margins and there is no doubt of our ability in due course, to rectify this anomaly without in any way impairing our highly competitive position.

UNDERGROUND DEVELOPMENT

“Development underground in terms of footage was satisfactory but owing to one of the periodical occurrences of faults in the seams, some of the working places so developed have not provided quite the conditions for mechanical extraction which they would otherwise have done. However the position is only less satisfactory than it might have been as distinct from unsatisfactory, making somewhat difficult the intensive concentration of production necessary for the most economical possible winning of the present small demand.

“The stripping programme progressed satisfactorily with the result that our stripped reserves are once again restored to a safe and suitable tonnage.

THE PLYWOOD SECTION

“The plywood section of our undertaking had a satisfactory year and it is gratifying to be able to report that sales were extended in a way to suggest that at last we have succeeded in breaking down that conservatism which for so long resisted our sales endeavour. A large remaining part of the local demand for chests is associated with vested interests which we hardly hope to penetrate; this being unfortunate, both from the point of view of this company and of the country generally. If the principle of support to local industry in normal times is regarded by some as controversial, there can be no argument about the usefulness of a local product in time of war.

“The brickmaking plant and wood distillation plant worked intermittently to supply the demand for their products and on this basis the performance and outcome of these sections of our undertaking may be regarded as satisfactory. The sale of so heavy and low priced an article as brick is largely controlled by the cost of transport. This does not apply to such as wood preservative, and while our MalAsote is really a first class article it is just characteristic of the regard with in local products are held that it cannot be sold in anything like the quantities which the markets could absorb. Progress, though slow, is, we feel, sure, and I hope it will not be long before MalAsote in its sphere is held in the regard that MalAply now enjoys.

“The position regarding the proposed installation of a cement manufacturing plant here in the F. M. S., in conjunction with experienced British interests, is still unfinalised. While having regard to the trend of political developments, the establishment of a plant to render Malaya self-sufficient in the matter of its cement supplies must be of immense advantage to the country, that same trend may or may not enhance the value of the proposed undertaking as an investment, and the position will call for very careful review before any definite step is taken.

SUB-DIVISION OF SHARES

“When last addressing you, reference was made to the revival of the idea of sub-dividing the $10 shares of the company into shares of a smaller denomination and the views of shareholders were sought. Some shareholders were good enough to respond but it was felt by the board that the views expressed were not sufficiently definite to justify the convening of meetings for consideration of a hard and fast resolution. So that a decision might be arrived at one way or another, shareholders were circularised in February and as a result 322 shareholders, representing 151,889 shares have recorded their views. 100,056 for the sub-division into $2 shares and 42,903 against such sub-division, the majority in favour thus being 57,153. Twelve shareholders representing 8,930 expressed themselves as neither for or against and in favour of whatever course the board may adopt, and added to this, the board and the interests represented by members thereof, have refrained from voting. The board are quite prepared to be guided by shareholders in the matter of their interests, the view being held that, whilst the proposed sub-division may interest in the company’s shares a class of investor that may now regard the shares as too bulky for its portfolio, and so broaden the market to the benefit of shareholders, the fortunes of the company cannot be adversely affected. This being so, the board feel that opportunity should be provided to put the matter to a vote, and the necessary resolutions will be prepared and the meetings convened in due course.

“In concluding at this time last year, I felt justified in weaving a thread of optimism into my remarks having a bearing upon the outcome of the then current year. That was before the eventful fortnight in September, and now with the outlook again obscured by international perplexities of the first order, one is tempted to take the view that the best that may be safely hoped for during the coming year is some stimulation of our primary industries and, through them, the demand for coal, as a result of the feverish intensification of rearmament the world over. Some consolation perhaps is that we are passing through times of rapid changes, and that such changes cannot always be against the best interests of the peoples of the world. Be that as it may, optimism to-day would seem to have little justification as a general outlook upon the immediate future. As far as our particular business is concerned, however, we are in a position to achieve the very best possible results from such demand as we may be favoured with for our products. This being so, I look forward with quiet confidence as distinct from optimism to our next meeting.

“While on this note I should like, once again, to record the high opinion which my colleagues and I hold of the ability and keenness of the staff in general and also of the loyalty and interest of the vast majority of our labour force.

Mr. Lim Cheng Law, supporting the adoption of the report and accounts said:

“We have listened with great interest to your remarks about the splitting of shares into a smaller denomination. It will be remembered that it was I who brought up this subject at the last annual general meeting and I am still of the opinion that it would be of real advantage to the shareholders. The merit of conversion is that it opens a wider field for dealings in the shares.

“Units of two dollar shares would give a much larger list of shareholders and consequently more potential customers. It would also mean considerably more dealings in the shares, with a much more active and liquid market, and they would become more and more popular and their market value would appreciate. Moreover, they can be purchased in such small units that there is no obstacle to the acquiring of shares by anyone who has a limited margin of income over his essential needs.

The report and accounts were adopted.

FINAL DIVIDEND

The chairman proposed that a final dividend of 6 per cent. be declared in respect of the profits for the year 1938, payable to-day. Mr. Martin seconded and the motion was carried.

The chairman proposed that the sum of $20,000 be voted as directors’ fees in respect of the year 1938. Mr. D. Sear seconded and the motion was carried.

The chairman: “Under the provisions of the Articles of Association Mr. A. W. Delamore and Mr. J. Drysdale retire and I have pleasure in proposing that they be re-elected as directors.

Mr. Lim Cheng Law seconded and the motion as carried.

Messrs. Evatt and Co. were re-elected as auditors.

Before the meeting concluded Mr. Lim Cheng Law said: “I do not think we should disperse without voicing the unanimous desire of the shareholders in professing to the board of directors—and in particular to the general managers and secretaries—and to those able colleagues who have worked in collaboration with them—our congratulations on the excellence of the results achieved as evidenced by the accounts with which we are again presented.

“I also desire to express to the staff—whose excellence of service and loyalty are traditional—our deep sense of gratitude at their efforts which have contributed so materially to the eminently satisfactory position displayed in the accounts which are submitted for adoption to-day.

“The growth and progress of the Malayan Collieries has been associated closely with the tin mining industry of this country. I have been a shareholder of this company since its formation twenty-five years ago. Now we shall be celebrating the Silver Jubilee of the Company and during the whole of that time the stock of the Malayan Collieries has always been looked upon as one of the safest investments anyone could desire to have. I am sure the miners particularly fully appreciate the reliable service we provide for them.

The Straits Times, 13 June 1939, Page 16 & The Straits Times, 14 June 1939, Page 16 & The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 15 June 1939, Page 12 NEED FOR MORE FILMS OF MALAYAN LIFE STRESSED. Deputy Agent On How To Tell World About Peninsula. PHOTOGRAPHS ALWAYS IN DEMAND: REGULAR SUPPLY SOUGHT. GREATER use of documentary motion pictures as a means of showing Malaya to the world is advocated by Mr. E. Jago, Deputy Malayan Agent in London, in the annual report on the administration of the Malayan Information Agency for 1938. The film ‘Five Faces”, taken in Malaya by the Strand Film Company in 1937, was ready for release in February 1938, says the report. (Summary: preview at Gaumont, film praised by newspapers, rights sold, popular documentary, series of films, by Rev. Hamilton Aikin, ‘Rice Planting’, ‘Coconuts, copies in Empire Exhibition, placed in Empire Film Library, at Imperial Institute, talk on pineapples, extract published in Listener, televised talk from Alexandra Palace, 1,700 inquiries received, interest public takes in food, until end of Nov. only 33 new photographs added to collection, 22 of these obtained in England through Straits Times, Crown Agents for Colonies and Messrs. W. Loxley and Co. (Malayan Collieries). Mr. A.H.P. Humphrey gave Agency collection of photographs, 41 photographs received from Government for display at New York trade fair. Series by Mr. H. D. Meads of Agriculture Dept, and scenes of native life by Mr. Humphrey, new sets in constant demand.) (723 words)

The Straits Times, 16 June 1939, Page 4 & The Straits Times, 17 June 1939, Page 4 & The Straits Times, 19 June 1939, Page 2 PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD Notice of Declaration of Dividend No 74 and Closure of Share Registers….First Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd., June 16, 1939

Letter to Kathleen Russell from Bob Russell TEL. E.4321, CADBORO BAY, R.R.1., BRITISH COLUMBIA,7 July 1939

My Dear Kathleen,

Your letter of the 4th June reached me the day before we left Victoria to come to Ontario, for Lola’s mother died on the 27th June and we had to have her brought across here to be buried next to Lola’s father and also to settle up Lola’s mother’s affairs-we shall be here for a week or a fortnight-it was a trying business getting here 4 days by train—however we have now started packing and disposing of mother’s effects and have put the legal machinery into action to obtain probate of the will, whilst here (Waterloo, Ont ) your confidential cable was relayed to me.

With regard to your letter I must thank you for your action in regard to having me provided with copies of the minutes—I imagined that it was your intention I should have them but Robbins character is such that if he can possibly make things difficult for me he will, I fear he is petty minded.

You state Robbins is “partially retiring” this I take to mean that he will spend 6 months in Australia and return for the Colliery meeting only; under these circumstances I presume his Director’s fees from Collieries will again revert to the firm.

You may not be aware of the fact that some 6 or 8 months after Archie’s death he claimed that as he gave up so much of his leisure time to Colliery affairs he and not the firm was entitled to the Director’s fees. Peter was against it but seeing how Robbins felt about it I agreed—but I cannot say that I agree under his “partial retirement” scheme. Of course I do not know what remuneration Robbins would be given for his part time stewardship.

I have no details of Insurance Policies but Robbins told me that he had an endowment policy for £1000 which would mature in about 2 years time and I also know for a number of years the firm paid the premium on an Insurance Policy—a matter between Archie and Robbins and never discussed by the former with me—my memory may be at fault but I think the firm stopped paying the premium when Archie cancelled the loan he made Robbins to enable him to purchase the holding Robbins has in Collieries.

I now come to your cable, for which I am very grateful and I will refrain from conjectures until I receive William’s letter but I must say that in view of Robbins “partial retirement” I cannot view with equanimity the idea of giving Delamore, Clarkson and Drysdale voting powers and also power to make decisions which would be irrevocable should we beneficiaries under the will not agree with. I have never had a copy of the articles of association of J. & R. Co Ltd and I am convinced it was never Archie’s intention that J. & R. Co’s affairs should be conducted by strangers as far as he could see there would always have been a Russell in the direction of the firm.

I will not ?dilate any longer on the whole business but await William’s letter-I must say how profoundly grateful I am that you married William for I am certain he will be able to visualize “the thin end of any wedge” that may be fashioned.

Tristan’s snap is excellent he is remarkably like Archie but with a strong admixture of you the eyes are yours—he seems a strong husky kid. I think he goes from strength to strength.

Lola joins in sending love and all the best to you and William.

In order to expedite dispatch I am sending this by trans-atlantic mail.

Yours Bob.

The Straits Times, 10 July 1939, Page 13  COAL MINING IN MALAYA & The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 10 July 1939, Page 7 High Grade Coal Mined At Batu Arang (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur. July 9. MORE THAN EIGHT MILLION tons of coal were mined at the Batu Arang coalfields in the last 13 years, states the annual report of the Mines Department, which adds that large reserves are still available. Careful handling of the coal mined here is however necessary, as it is really high grade lignite and unfortunately is capable of spontaneous combustion. The Malayan Collieries, which mine the Rawang coal, use both the open cast method and shovel and dragline excavators. Machinery of a modern type was installed last year to replace older machines. In 1937, however, more coal was mined than last year but less was exported so the profit from export last year was greater than that the previous year. Of the 477,908 tons mined last year, more than a third was sold to the F.M.S. Railways in the Federated Malay States. Over 50,000 tons were sold to the Railways outside the F.M.S., and 133,453 tons were sold to mines. Other consumers in the F.M.S. accounted for over 80,000 tons and those outside the F.M.S. purchased little more than 50,000 tons. The boilers in the Collieries consumed 24,000 tons and the balance of 4,000 odd tons was dumped. Nearly double the amount of coal treated in 1937, was handled by the coal washery last year. The report adds that from the point of view of production, last year was the worst since 1935, but this is explained by the position of the tin industry, which is one of the best supporters of the coal industry. Cuts in tin quota accounted for dwindling figures in the months after January 1938, which was a peak month. The company finds it impossible to have a buffer between demand and supply, owing to the tendency towards spontaneous combustion which Batu Arang coal displays.

The Straits Times, 21 July 1939, Page 13  A visit to the Malayan Collieries, Batu Arang, has been arranged for members of the Estate Asiatic Staffs Association, Selangor, on Sunday by permission of the general managers, J. A. Russell and Co., Ltd. Members are asked to assemble at Batu Arang Railway Station at 9.30 a.m

The Straits Times, 6 August 1939, Page 3 TOUR BY SCHOOL SOCIETY (From Our Own Correspondent.) Malacca, Saturday. •TWENTY-ONE students of the Anglo- Chinese School, 16 of them members of the A.C.S. Geographical Society, are going on a holiday excursion to Kuala Lumpur, Klang and Fraser's Hill, under the charge of Mr. Wong Hon Chong, senior geography master. (Summary: list of places party will visit inc. Malayan Collieries.) (122 words)

The Straits Times, 21 August 1939, Page 7  Amalgamated Malay Rubber To Pay 6 Per Cent. PROFIT EARNED $42,951: TIN TRIBUTE RECEIVED $19,037 A NET profit of $42,951 was earned by Amalgamated Malay Estates Ltd. in the year ended June last. This compares with $98,297 earned in the preceding year. (Summary: div. for year 12%, sum form Batu Selangor Tin dredging for land leased to it for mining, small area of land sold to another tin mining company, crop harvested, average price realized, Mr. C J Chisholm retired from board, board now consists of Messrs. D.H. Hampshire, A. Mustard and H.H. Robbins who is alternate for J. H. Clarkson. Mr. Mustard seeks re-election, annual meeting KL Aug 29, balance sheet, other liabilities, investments.) (404 words)

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser , 23 August 1939, Page 3  (449 words) & The Straits Times, 22 August 1939, Page 14 FUTURE POLICY FOR MALAYA'S TIN INDUSTRY. REVENUE IS DEPENDENT ON CONTINUED PROSPERITY. Sir Lewis Fermor's Report On Inquiry Published Today. PROSPECTING PROBLEMS AND THE RESTRICTION AGREEMENT. RECOMMENDATIONS for the future of the Malayan tin industry are made in the report of Sir Lewis Fermor which was presented to today's meeting of the Federal Council in Kuala Lumpur. (Summary: Sir Lewis invited to investigate problems in industry, points from the report, revenue, surveys, leases, conservation, licenses, qualifications, dredges, other methods, tin reserves, assessment capacity of concession, fund after reserves exhausted, expts. in fine silt, use of dredged ground for crops, saving top soil, prospecting left to private enterprise, compensation for damage to reservations, larger leases to Chinese workers. Power Reserves.) “ I recommend to the Malayan Collieries Ltd. that in consideration of the fact that they are in possession of the only valuable coalfield in Malaya and of a mass of mineral that in importance stands second only to the tin deposits of the country, the company should, at an early date, by means of a suitable boring campaign, ascertain the extent of the coal deposits with which the company has been entrusted. On account of the improbability that Malaya will ever be able to provide electric energy generated either from water power or from coal, at a low enough cost to justify electro-chemical or electro-metallurgical industries based on ores of tungsten, iron, manganese or aluminum, I cannot recommend that any steps should be taken to prevent the export of these ores in their crude condition. I recommend, however, as possibly worth consideration, an investigation of the possibilities of manufacturing cement in Malaya, using Malayan limestone, shale, bauxite and coal.” (1397 words)

The Straits Times, 16 September 1939, Page 2 The Straits Times, 18 September 1939, Page 2, The Straits Times, 19 September 1939, Page 2 MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD Notice of Declaration of Dividend No 75 and Closure of Share Registers….Second Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd, September 15, 1939

The Straits Times, 1 October 1939, Page 7  One Day's Pay Plan In K.L. (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Friday. THE ADOPTION by some organizations of "the one day's pay plan" of contributing to the Malaya Patriotic Fund, was referred to last night by Mrs. L. A. Allen, treasurer of the local branch of the Fund, at a meeting of the General Committee. (Summary: Red Cross, exchange of prisoners, amount in fund, buying wool in England, money to French, International and British Red Cross) “ Mrs. L. A. Allen, the hon. treasurer, said that Malayan Collieries had volunteered to construct collection boxes “ (215 words)  

[Advertisements] The Straits Times, 2 October 1939, Page 1 THE VALUE OF MALAYAN SECONDARY INDUSTRY IS FURTHER DEMONSTRATED BY THE ANNUAL CAPACITY OF THE “MALAPLY" FACTORY OF MORE THAN ONE MILLION CHESTS FOR THE PACKING OF RUBBER AND TEA OR THE APPROXIMATE EQUIVALENT OF ALL PLYWOOD CHESTS IMPORTED FROM FOREIGN SOURCES DURING THE YEAR 1938 MALAYAN COLLIERIES, LTD. KUALA LUMPUR.

The Straits Times, 30 October 1939, Page 5  MALAYAN COLLIERIES SALES HIGHER. IN September sales of coal by Malayan Collieries Ltd. rose to 38.837 tons, the highest figure since April last year The increase in the sales is attributable mainly to consumption by tin dredges consequent upon the raising of the tin exportable quota for the third quarter.

Document on Kedah notepaper, dated 1 November 1939. Written in Malay. Departmental Papers Admn. Office Kedah Managers Russell and Co. Alor Star, asks to purchase Chandu from Government Chandu shop at Changloon for his coolies at the mines at Sintok. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia 2883/1339 Summarised by Wong Yee Tuan.

The Straits Times, 5 December 1939, Page 10 & The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 5 December 1939, Page 3  MALAYAN STRIKERS MAKE 18 DEMANDS Emergency Regulations Essential Services COMPANY OFFER COST OF LIVING ALLOWANCES (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Dec. 4. STRIKERS DEMAND 50 PER CENT. INCREASE Government And Stoppage at Malayan Collieries COMPANY OFFERING COST OF LIVING ALLOWNANCES (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Dec. 5. Although the 2,000 Chinese and 500 Indian labourers employed at the Batu Arang mines of Malayan Collieries, who went on strike on Sunday have been told that Government will not allow a stoppage of work on essential services, the men had not returned to work this morning and there is little change in the position. About 50 Malayalees are prepared to return to work at once and it has been arranged that they should be given police protection. There is no picketing or other noticeable activity by the strikers. When the workers went on strike, one of the demands they presented was for a 50 per cent. increase in wages. They made 18 demands and asked for a reply in 24 hours. They suggested the abolition of the sliding scale in their wages. The company pointed out that the demand for a 50 per cent. increase was unreasonable but expressed its willingness to grant an allowance to cover the increased cost of living due to the war. The company further pointed out that the sliding scale had been accepted by the labourers for the past year. 150 Police On Duty The men did not resume work and with a view to protecting the property on the mine and the labourers who wished to return to work, 150 police have been ordered to the mines. They are armed with kandar sticks. Through the Protector of Chinese, Dr. V. W. W. S. Purcell, Government has taken steps to make the labourers realise that stoppage of work on the mine, which will seriously interfere with the essential services, will not be tolerated. The men were told through loudspeakers that Government was prepared to take strong action against the strike, particularly in view of the Emergency Regulations powers. Most of the delegates who saw Dr. Purcell on Sunday are between the ages of 21 and 24 and most of them have been working on the mine for only a few months. A meeting was held after the interview with the Protector of Chinese and it was decided to stop work. Unreasonable Demand. A statement was issued to the labourers on the authority of the British resident pointing out that stoppage of work at the Malayan Collieries in wartime would interfere with the essential services of the country. Dr. Purcell saw the labourers and also advised them that their action was unlawful as it might interfere with the conduct of the war. He also pointed out that it was unreasonable for them to present demands and expect them to be met within 21 hours. The Malayan Collieries issued a statement to-day. In it is mentioned that demands were made for 50 per cent. increases in rates and for separate payment for various items in work which are now paid for on an inclusive basis. The company, through its representatives, met the labour force delegates and explained that they had under consideration the granting of an allowance, subject to variation from time to time, to cover the increased cost of living. It now offered the equivalent of $1.50 a month to each worker for this purpose. It also explained to the labourers that the sliding scale of rates had been agreed to by the labourers last year, and owing to it rates had been increased by more than eight per cent. over the last few months. The Straits Times Kuala Lumpur correspondent who visited the mines, found work practically at a standstill. Crowds of Chinese sat in coffee shops or were playing mahjong in their homes. The 150 police, who are under Mr. J. Gardiner, O.S.P.C., Kuala Lumpur, and Mr. W. Elphinstone, O.C.P.D., Kuala Lumpur, North, are housed in a pavilion opposite the padang. Policemen patrol the town. Only about 300 Indians and Malays are working. Most of the Indians are engaged in grass cutting and other work not directly connected with mining. This morning about 50 Malayalees went to work under police escort but no one went down into the pits. Not Specified. The Indians are also striking for higher pay but they have not specified their demands. Many of the Indians are not working because their jobs are such that in the event of the Chinese not working they have no work to do. One Indian previously working underground said that living in Batu Arang had gone up as a result of the war, and argued that the cost of food had risen $5 a month. This did not include cigarettes, coffee and betel nut. The Chinese are reticent and reluctant to discuss the strike, though two men said they had asked for a 50 per cent. increase in wages. They thought they might be willing to consider going back to work on a 25 per cent. increase. At the moment they are adamant and believe they can find work on other mines which are being opened up.

The Singapore Free Press, 5 December 1939, Page 4 A Wartime Strike The strike of some 2,500 workers at Batu Arang is a regrettable development and it is to be hoped that the men will return to work and submit their demands for consideration by their employers or by some impartial arbitration body. It is typical of Malayan industrial conditions that the Malayan Collieries’ strike should have begun suddenly and, apparently, unexpectedly. The men presented a series of 18 demands to their employers and expected an answer within 24 hours. Obviously no satisfactory answer could be given within such a short time and obviously too, an ultimatum of that sort which excludes all possibility of serious negotiations cannot be accepted by a responsible employer. It may be that the workers at Batu Arang have justifiable grievances—no full statement on their demands has so far reached Singapore—but it is obvious that they have gone the wrong way about securing redress. It can be assumed that the principal demand of the men concerns rates of pay. They are reported to have asked for a 50 per cent. increase, probably in the hope of securing a ten per cent. increase. The employers have responded with an offer to grant a cost of living allowance to compensate for the additional cost of food and other essentials as a result of the war. That is fair enough. It may be asked, however, why it is that the decision regarding a cost of living bonus made in Singapore last week, was not announced simultaneously in the Federated Malay States where the problem has been under consideration for some time past. Conditions in the F. M. S. are more complicated, but one factor is the same—the cost of foodstuffs has risen since the outbreak of war. Sir Alexander Small indicated the other day that employers should anticipate their employees’ demands in the matter of pay, as in other matter. That has been done in Singapore and the danger of industrial unrest has been averted. It may be that a delay of a few days in the F. M. S. is partly responsible for this new strike. An important principle is involved in the announcement that since the mining of coal is an essential service, the authorities are empowered to proceed against the strikers under the Emergency Regulations. It is to be hoped that this will not become necessary for it would set a precedent that might cause complications in the future. Obviously, no government of a country at war can permit essential services to be held up owing to a mass refusal of employees to work, but in the case of a purely industrial dispute every effort must be made by the authorities to arrange a settlement and there must always be abundant evidence that the workers’ claims are wholly unreasonable before strikers are arrested and charged in the courts. At Batu Arang, there has so far been no suggestion that the strike has any political motive. It is certainly not inspired by enemy agents and is not directed against Empire defence plans which it is the purpose of the Emergency regulations to protect. It is merely a demand for higher pay and different working conditions on the part of several hundred aggrieved and very probably misled and unthinking individuals. It may be recalled that an assurance was given in Parliament that the Act, under which the Malayan emergency regulations are passed, would not be used to deal with industrial disputes. Conditions here are different from those in Great Britain, but an important principle is involved. All the resources of industrial pacification must be used before resort is had to strong action against the strikers. The probability is that the men do not understand the important part they play in Malaya’s wartime economy. •

The Straits Times, 7 December 1939, Page 10 SETTLEMENT REACHED IN STRIKE OF 3,000 Collieries grant Increase To Employees AGREEMENT CONCLUDED AT MEETING LAST NIGHT (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Dec. 7. A SETTLEMENT was reached last night in the strike at the Malayan Collieries’ mines at Batu Arang, where 2,500 Chinese labourers and about 500 Indians employed in mining coal had downed tools. They resumed work this morning. The men have accepted an increase to cover the increasing cost of living due to the war. Last Saturday the Chinese presented 18 demands, including one for the immediate granting of 50 per cent. increases in their wages. The company issued a statement later saying that the labourers’ wage increase demand was unreasonable, but promising $1.50 increases in wages in view of the increased cost of food stuffs due to the war. Labourers were also told that their action was viewed with concern, as it might result in interference with the country’s essential services. Later, on Monday, Indian labourers also struck for increased wages, although they did not specify their demand. No labourers were working yesterday underground in the pits, and there was a complete cessation of coal mining as the Malayalees employed temporarily on Monday in working the open cast mines also downed tools. Official Statement “A satisfactory settlement was reached last night and work was resumed early this morning in all sections of the mines,” says an official statement issued by the company. “This was the outcome of a series of meetings between the representatives of the labour force and the officials of the company with the Chinese Consul and the Protector of Chinese as advisers to both sides. “An increase has been agreed upon which is sufficient to cover the existing and any immediate prospective rise in cost of living as a result of the war.” “It was with reluctance that the company agreed to abolish the sliding system of wages which has operated satisfactorily since July 1938 and it was very much in the interests of the labour force. What Workers Preferred “The company had hoped,” the statement continues, “to establish wartime cost of living allowances based upon a typical worker’s budget but a definite percentage increase was preferred by the labour force. “After reaching finality on all points the company again emphasised to the representatives of the labour force that it is always ready to listen to grievances, real or otherwise and has a labour department specially for this purpose. “In addition all officers of the company are readily available at all times to consider any point which may be raised “The company takes this opportunity of expressing thanks to the Protector of Chinese, the Chinese Consul and their respective staff for their willing and helpful endeavours throughout the negotiations the statement concludes. Soon after the agreement was reached last night the news was broadcast through loud-speakers installed on the mine padang and all labourers heard it.

The Straits Times, 8 December 1939, Page 11 AMICABLE NEGOTIATIONS AT MALAYAN COLLIERIES Chinese Consul Describes How Workers Reached Agreement. (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Dec. 7. A 15 per cent. increase in wages for its labourers has been approved by Malayan Collieries, Ltd., instead of the special allowances which were proposed to meet the increased cost of living since the outbreak of war, says a statement issued by the company at Batu Arang, the coal-mining centre. The strike ended last night. A statement by the Chinese Consul in Selangor, Mr. Tze Tzau Tsung, describes the negotiations in which he participated. Mr. Sze said that on Monday he and Mr. K. L. Yuen, Chancellor at the Consulate, left for Batu Arang. He met Mr. H. H. Robbins, chairman of the Malayan Collieries Ltd., and discussed the strikers’ demands with him. Later he met the men. The company was then prepared to give an allowance to each workman to cover the increased cost of living owing to the war, provided he put in 22 days work in the month. The company refused to increase wages. Mr. Sze conveyed these terms to the men, who were still dissatisfied. Consul Investigates The labourers insisted on a wage increase. The company presented a budget for a workman for one month amounting to over $14. The Consul took this budget, and after investigations, made up another which amounted to $17, “according to the actual needs of the labourers.” The company refused to accept the latter budget, saying it was too high, and on the following day, the Consul made further investigations into the prices of various commodities. Yesterday, Mr. Sze again went to Batu Arang and a meeting was held with Mr. Robbins from 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m., without any interval. The workers’ delegates were also present. Some 18 demands made by workmen were examined. The company was ready to give an allowance, instead of an increase in wages, of 10 cts. per day’s work. which is $2.20 for 22 days. They also agreed to abolish the sliding scale, and in order to give a full month’s work to all workmen, were prepared to reduce their labour force by 500 men. They also consented to give an allowance of 50 cts, monthly for repairs to those staying in attap houses. Offer Accepted The workmen insisted on an increase in wages and after discussion the company agreed to give a ten per cent. increase in wages, instead of an allowance. A meeting of the strikers was called and the delegates reported what had transpired at the meeting. Mr. Sze also spoke. Later the company agreed not to dismiss any employees. After the meeting Mr. Robbins shook hands with workers’ delegates. Throughout the negotiations excellent discipline was maintained by the strikers, and there were no untoward incidents, the men expressing a keen desire to discuss their grievances in an amicable manner. Company’s Statement. “A satisfactory settlement was reached last night and work was resumed early this morning in all sections of the mines,” says an official statement issued by the company yesterday. “This was the outcome of a series of meetings between the representatives of the labour force and the officials of the company with the Chinese Consul and the Protector of Chinese as advisers to both sides. “An increase has been agreed upon which is sufficient to cover the existing and any immediate prospective rise in cost of living as a result of the war. “It was with reluctance that the company agreed to abolish the sliding system of wages which has operated satisfactorily since July 1938 and it was very much in the interests of the labour force. “The company had hoped,” the statement continues, “to establish war-time cost of living allowances based upon a typical worker’s budget but a definite percentage increase was preferred by the labour force. “After reaching finality on all points the company again emphasized to the representatives of the labour force that it is always ready to listen to grievances, real or otherwise, and had a labour department specially for this purpose.”

The Singapore Free Press FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1939 Page 4 Malayan Strikes During the past few weeks reports have come in of strikes in various parts of Malaya, and Singapore has had its share. Two of the biggest, at Malayan Collieries and among the A. P. C. workers on Pulau Bukom fortunately did not last long, a settlement being reached after friendly negotiations between the men and their employers. Indeed, an outstanding feature of most recent strikes has been the tolerant attitude of both sides, and a desire to reach a mutually satisfactory settlement as soon as possible. This is well illustrated by the fact that at the end of the Malayan Collieries dispute, Mr. H. H. Robbins, the managing director of the company, shook hands with the workers’ leaders, a little incident which is far too rare in Malayan industrial negotiations. (Information on other strikes here not transcribed) It would not be true to say that their main cause is either the failure of certain employers to adjust the earnings of their employees in accordance with the higher cost of living, or a general desire on the part of the workers to take advantage of the situation which Malayan industry is facing at the present time. It has been shown in many industries, however, that the speedy consideration of workers’ demands and the grant of reasonable concessions can often prevent a dispute degenerating into a strike. Although most big employers have followed the example of the Government in granting cost of living allowances to unskilled labourers and artisans in their employ, it is unfortunately not true to say that wages have everywhere increased in accordance with higher costs of essential commodities nor with the ability of employers to pay. None of the estimates as to the extent of the increase in the cost of living can be exact for prices of articles of everyday necessity, as well as of goods in the so-called luxury class, are still fluctuating and are likely to do so for some time to come. It is to be hoped that those few employers who have not increased wages in accordance with the Government scale will do so immediately, and the question of extending the scheme to cover clerical and other workers should also be considered. An important point is that the increased cost of living affects all classes of the community even though at the beginning it was most noticeable among the lower-paid class of employee. It may be hoped that the strikes in progress at present will rapidly be settled and that future disputes will be prevented from developing. Both employers and employees should remember what Sir Shenton Thomas said at the last meeting of the Legislative Council, that a strike anywhere in the Empire during the war is an indirect incentive of the enemy, and to avoid strikes needs an enlightened outlook on the part of all concerned. The chief lesson for employers is, so far as possible, to anticipate the workers’ needs, and for employees to refrain from unreasonable demands and to have patience in negotiating.

The Straits Times, 12 December 1939, Page 2, The Straits Times, 13 December 1939, Page 2, The Straits Times, 14 December 1939, Page 4 , The Straits Times, 15 December 1939, Page 4  , The Straits Times, 18 December 1939, Page 2, The Straits Times, 19 December 1939, Page 2, The Straits Times, 20 December 1939, Page 2  , The Straits Times, 21 December 1939, Page 2 ,The Straits Times, 22 December 1939, Page 4, The Straits Times, 23 December 1939, Page 4 , The Straits Times, 26 December 1939, Page 2, The Straits Times, 27 December 1939, Page 2, The Straits Times, 28 December 1939, Page 6 MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD. Notice of Declaration of Dividend No 76 and Closure of Share Registers Third Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co., Ltd., 11th December, 1939