YOU reported the situation as it affects Selby mineworkers who have expressed an interest in transferring to Kellingley Colliery when the Selby mines close this summer (May 12).

Mineworkers, particularly in Yorkshire, have a tradition of loyalty to the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM).

Therefore, stating that Selby miners are thinking of ditching their union and joining another is absolutely ludicrous. The Selby workforce, who wish to remain in the industry, will become increasingly frustrated if a solution is not agreed which will allow them to transfer to Kellingley.

However, if UK Coal had not taken the decision to close the Selby complex there would not have been the loss of around 2,000 jobs in an area that traditionally suffers from high levels of unemployment.

Even at this late stage, Riccall and Stillingfleet mines could remain open.

Considering the amount of coal reserves left at these two mines and the increase in fuel prices, it would make more sense if your paper campaigned for the Selby complex to remain open, rather than printing articles which will only cause ill feeling among men who may be forced to work together.

Maurice Kent,

NUM secretary,

Riccall Mine.

Updated: 08:30 Saturday, May 15, 2004