1. The Coal Industry and the First World War

2. Aims : Identify the impact of the First World War on the British coal industry. Examine the changes to the coal industry after the war.

3. The Impact of War The First World War began in 1914 but by the end of 1915 there was a huge drop in the amount of coal being mined in Britain. Can you think why this would be the case?

4. Coal production decreased as a huge number of miners had volunteered to go and fight in the war. Despite this, coal was still greatly required. It was essential for the war effort.

5. The Importance of Coal To run factories Iron works to make weapons To run ships To fuel homes To power railways

6. Solving the Problem Due to the huge decrease in coal production the government decided that they would control the mines for the duration of the war, instead of the mine owners. This is called NATIONALISATION Miners were also exempt from joining the army.

7. Challenges to the Mining Industry The British coal industry faced many problems after the war. Cheap coal was being imported from Poland and Germany. Less coal was being exported (sent abroad). New types of fuel such as oil were being developed. Demand for coal decreased with the rise of the motor car – less people travelled by train.

8. Industrial Action When the mines were returned to their former owners after the war there was conflict. Many miners preferred working for the government as their wages had been higher. Trouble increased in the mid 1920s when owners tried to reduce wages and increase the working day. Miners went on strike over this. Their slogan was “not a minute on the day, not a penny off the pay.” Despite striking for 6 months during the May 1926 General Strike, they were eventually forced to accept pay cuts and an increase in hours.

9. Strikers outside Prestonpans Colliery, 1926

10. Miners in Motherwell receiving help from a soup kitchen during the strike

11. 1.Workguide Activity 16 complete questions 1-13. 2.Title Page for next topic - Railways