The herald and news. [volume] (Newberry S.C.) 1903-1937, 1919-12-16
GARFIELD OBJECTS
TO PRESIDENTS PLAN
Strongly Opposes Amy Kind of Agree.
ment which Means Higher
Priced Coal.

Washington, Dec. 11.-Fuel Ad-
ministrator Garfeld's resignation was
tonight in the hands of President VIII
son, given because he disagrees on
principle with the coal strike settle
ment proposal arranged by the gov
ernment and the mine workers
union.
DR.. Garfield himself refused tonight
to confirm, deny or discuss the report,
but at the White House it was said
that a personal letter from him had
been transmitted to the President
late this afternoon.
Men close to the fuel administra-
tor understand that he believes that
the work of the commission author
lied under the settlement to be made
up of one coal mine operator, coal
miner and a third person named to
represent the public, will result in an
increase in the price of coal to the
consuming public. Against this. form
of a settlement, DR.. Garfield has been
unalterably opposed. It has been
learned on good authority that he
took no part in the negotiation with
the mine workers union chiefs during
the last week, and that though inform
ed and consulted after their initia-
ton, the terms laid out as finally ac-
cepted contravene his conception of
the main principle involved.
Paid From Profits.
It was recalled in connection with
the resignation in suggesting a IA
per cent wage increase as fair for
the miners and possible to be paid
from present profits of mine owners,
DR.. Garfield suggested commission
representative Of the industry to re-
view the findings, but expressed the
conviction that such body should
not have power to fix prices. His be-
lief is said to be that with this pow
er granted a combination of the en-
ployer and employe in the industry
to muych the public by price raises is
certain to result.
Whether the President will ac-
cept the resignation is not known.
Members of the cabinet, however, are
known to be supporting the settle
ment program as put through by
Attorney General Palmer. Presi-
dent Wilson today sent telegram of
congratulation to Acting President
John /. Lewis, of the mine workers,
at the action taken at Indianapolis.
Operators in Washington.
Coal mine operators authorized to
represent practically the entire indus
try were still in Washington tonight
awaiting an official notification of the
settlement basis. There was consid-
cradle of opinion, but no meetings
ence of opinion, but no meetings
were held to formulate definite de-
cisions of policy, and none would be,
it was said, until the government call
came. All were interested in hearing
from home as to the action Of the
miners locals upon the union order
calling off the strike, but received
little information.
Only Minor Changes.
Only one minor change in coal saw
ing orders came today from the rail
road administration, allowing retail
stores to remain open nine instead of
six hours on Saturdays. The six
hour schedule will be maintained on
other days. Well informed officials
hold the opinion that many Of the
restrictions now ordered will have to
remain effective until about January
20, even should the miners go back at
once in body.
The war finance corporation was
called into a discussion today of
methods of financing mines whose
product is not promptly paid for un-
der existing systems Of distribution
and which may not be able to con-
tinue operation without aid. Plans
for granting relief were considered.