Washington. Indications that the
government is preparing to take con
trol of the coal Industry were strength
ened when President Wilson paid a
visit to the Federal Trade Commis
sion and went over with its members
estimates ot coal production costs and
recommendations for dealing with the
situation completed by the commis
sion after months of investigation.
Definite action to reduce prices to the
consumer and to bring about a better
distribution. It was learned, will be
taken.
.Before going to the Trade Commis
sion the President called on Herbert
Hoover, named to administer the food
act, in which are provisions for con
trol of coal; Attorney General Greg
ory and Judge Robert S. Lovett. of
tbe War Industries Board, who. It Is
understood will be given powers vest
ed in the executive in a recent law
governing priority of railroad ship
ments. The President Is deeply concerned
over the coal situation. Even repre
sentatives of the operators admit that
parts of the country faoe a shortage
this winter, and from the publio com
plaints are pouring In that prices are
out of all reason. The fact that sev
eral governors are threatening to
take over the industry in their states
Is prompting early federal action.
Three courses are open to the Pres
ident Under the food bill he may fix
prices at the mines and to consumers,
or he may direct some government
agency to requisition the output of all
mines, selling It to the publio. The
third course would contemplate a vol
ontary agreement by operators to sell
at a fair price, with the government
directing distribution.
TROOPS JAJL27 I.W.W.
Leaders Arrested on Eve of Strike, I
Their Headquarters, Held aa
Military Prisoners.
