Mexborough and Swinton Times December 30, 1939
Miners’ Leader’s Message
Mr J. A. Hall Looks Ahead Into 1940
Issues Clearly Defined
“Let us not waste time about debating the war—let us get on with it. For better or worse we are in this struggle. It will be for better if we all stick together and pull one way with that courage and determination which is typically British.”
This call to patriotic action occurs in a message given to Wombwell people through our columns by Mr. J. A. Hall, J.P., Chairman of the Wombwell U.D.C. and President of the Yorkshire Mineworkers’ Association.
Mr. Hall goes on, “Let us find strength for this great trial n sympathising with and supporting others—particularly our weaker brothers in all walks of life.”
Mr. Hall points out that he also serves who only stays at home and does his duty honestly in whatever task to which national and communal life has called him.
“Wombwell,” he says, will send as many men to the Colours as it did in the last war if the need arises, but as a mining township its chief contribution will be in the way of coal. It will play its part loyally in keeping the home fires burning!
“I have pleasure in wishing the people of Wombwell the best of luck that the times can afford,” says Mr. Hall. “As we step toward the threshold of the New Year we feel and know that 1940 is to be a fateful year in the history of mankind. Principles which man has struggled for centuries to establish, and which to him are beyond price are at stake. We are up against a formidable, strong and ruthless enemy. Nevertheless we can face the future with courage. Right will vindicate itself in the end.”
“In the job immediately before us everyone must play his part—our gallant soldiers sailors and airmen, the workers on the home front, to whom the country is looking for that unity of purpose that will withstand any shocks; the owners and industrialists who should avoid needless irritation and show a spirit of understanding conciliation; the people who must be ready to make sacrifices and to endure hardships as the need may come along; the government and leaders of the country who must be ever conscious of the great responsibility which rests in their hands.”
“I have every confidence that the miners of this country will play their part,” says Mr. Hall. “The call is for an extra million tons of coal. That call will not go unanswered. We are all too familiar with the miserable uncertainties of the past ten years. The day of reckoning has come. We now know what our job is. Shoulder to shoulder we shall win through. The joyful harvest of this supreme challenge of right against wrong will perhaps not be experienced by the older generation, but we shall ensure for the rising generation a rightful heritage. Let us face the future with confidence and fortitude.”