For the descendents of Richard Dearie and his son John Russell
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Letter to Kathleen Russell from Bob Russell. TEL. E.4321 ,CADBORO BAY, R.R.1.,BRITISH COLUMBIA, 16 January 40
My dear Kathleen,
I was very glad to have your news in your letter of 11th December which reached me two days ago and many thanks for the seasonal greetings. As you say Christmas these days does not convey much to anyone save children, I cannot truthfully say that any Christmas is indelibly marked on my memory.
I had an official notification from K.L. that the Annual General meeting was to be held on the 29th February but according to your proposed time table you will not be here for it, however, I am glad you are ?due to make the trip as you can, as a “friend” enquire why I am not receiving the ?... as promised. I have twice written pointing out the omission but have had no acknowledgement or reply.
William might endeavour to discover what Robbins policy is, for I must admit I am nervous as to the future—from the minute sent me I note he is continuing to sell income bearing properties—what is his ultimate aim what emasculated form of investment will he leave to hand to Tristan—as far as Tristan is concerned it will not matter much he will have a nice safe invested sum and he may not wish when he arrives at man’s estate to continue on in the East and quite likely go into one of the professions with a nice private income but my position would be different, my ?...... in Archie’s estate after Robbins has dealt with it may be safe but will be an unknown quantity, certainly not enough to live on—what is Robbins ultimate aim what does he propose to hand to Tristan eventually.
He had in mind selling all the Collieries and the Agency for its goodwill, then what?
There seems to be to be too much secrecy and a high handed policy on Robbins part to the Trustees a sort of “we will do this, I know as I am on the spot.”
I think I might be given an inkling for I should like to know what my probate position will be when my present arrangement expires, for if as I fear I am to be left with a very much reduced income it behoves me to save everything I can whilst my present arrangement exists so that I can have a few pennies to eke out what small income I may eventually get.
Archie never visualised the present position for neither Don or myself were permitted to save or make any provision for the future, we both drew any money required but could not draw to invest or speculate.
However I must not let my imagination run away with me on a pessimistic line of thought (but one does not get younger and this curtain of secrecy does not inspire confidence) and await your trip to K.L. and hope that Robbins may enlighten you as to his idea of what he is aiming at with this orgy of selling.
I note that he has not yet sold any of the undeveloped land in K.L. (incidentally be bought some more) and my failure to do anything with this undeveloped property was one of his many criticisms of my slackness—anyone can sell a revenue producing property.
With all the best from Lola and myself to both you and William and as you say may 1940 bring some hope of a settled future.
Yours
Bob.
The Straits Times, 2 February 1940, Page 5 MORE COAL SOLD IN DECEMBER. SALES of coal by Malayan Collieries Ltd. in December totalled 49,397 tons, compared with 45,255 tons in November, bringing total sales for 1939 to 423,589 tons, compared with 449,305 tons in 1938
The Straits Times, 8 February 1940, Page 9 , The Straits Times, 14 February 1940, Page 9 , The Straits Times, 7 March 1940, Page 9 Advertisements, METROPOLITAN- VICKERS. SELF-CONTAINED TURBO-GENERATOR SETS. LOW PRICE- SIMPLE- EFFICIENT As supplied for the construction of H.M. Naval Base, Singapore & to Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang, Selangor. One 1250 kW. and two 625 kW. Metrovick Self-contained Turbo-generator Sets installed in the Irwin Power Station at Moti Jhil, Gwalior, Central India. Also STEAM TURBINE SETS. TRANSFORMERS. ALTERATORS. SWITCH GEAR. METERING APPARATUS. And all electrical requirements McALISTER & CO., LTD (Incorporated in S.S.) SINGAPORE. KUALA LUMPUR. IPOH. PENANG.
[Advertisements] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser 26 February 1940, Page 4 , The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 28 February 1940, Page 4 , The Straits Times, 28 February 1940, Page 14 , The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 2 March 1940, Page 4 , The Straits Times, 2 March 1940, Page 11 , The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 6 March 1940, Page 7 , The Straits Times, 9 March 1940, Page 13 "BOH" TEA. Product of BOH PLANTATIONS LTD, CAMERON HIGHLANDS. 1 Ib. Packet 75 cents – ½ lb. PACKET 40 cents. The above Pre-war retail prices remain unchanged. All rail freight is prepaid on Boh Tea and there is no justification for Retailers in any town in the Straits Settlements or Federated Malay States selling at more than the above authorised prices. DISTRIBUTORS: HARPER, GILFILLAN & CO. LTD., (All Branches)
The Straits Times, 4 March 1940, Page 5 NEW SERENDAH RUBBER Large Replanting Programme PROPOSING the adoption of the report and accounts at the annual meeting of New Serendah Rubber Co., Ltd., in Kuala Lumpur, on Friday, Mr. D. H. Hampshire, the chairman, said: (Summary: accounts for 1939 more favourable than previous year, improved price of rubber, International Regulation Scheme, profit, fire in kitchen of manager’s bungalow, investments the same, land sold last year to allow deviation of Serendah river, new planting programme 118 acres, dry weather slowed growth, ten acres planted in 1937 cost 42,601.19, experimental area. Replanting 100 acres this year costs $250 per acre. Old areas need replanting. Company formed in 1910 it purchased 504 acres in rubber, planted 1906-09, area 30 years old, heavily tapped in early years, money needed from profits, progress will depend on earnings, estate in good condition, older areas manured, forward contracts, report and accounts adopted. Final dividend 5% making 7 ½% for year. M. J. Kennaway and J. H. Clarkson re-elected directors. Donation to patriotic fund. ) (783 words)
Letter to Kathleen Russell from Bob Russell. TEL. E.4321, CADBORO BAY,R.R.1.,BRITISH COLUMBIA, 6 March 40
My dear Kathleen,
Many thanks for your letter of 18th January which reached me on the 3rd March enclosing the minute necessary to complete my file.
I notice in the February ’38 minutes (number 397) the reason of Robbins antagonism to my presence namely he wanted to increase his emoluments, the wording of the minute is humorous “with the Bank’s approval” etc “ Mr. Robbins reverts to his 1932 salary of $2000” J. A R. Co. Ltd were not in existence in ’32. After Archie’s death in consultation with Don, Robbins salary was placed at $1500/-, what he got in ’32 was entirely at Archie’s discretion. What he received after the firm was founded was to be decided by the Board, he obtained whilst I was there the Colliery Director’s fee and whilst I was still with the firm the burden of his song was he did not require any more, why could he not have been more honest about the matter, instead of camouflaging it with “what happened in 1932” and “Bank’s approval.” With a free house, car, Colliery fees and his $2000 a month he receives $30,000 per annum or £3,500 per annum—getting on for a Governor’s salary and his activities on behalf of the firm seems to be to sell all the revenue providing assets and we can only wait and hope it seems we are all entirely at his disposition with his “rubber stamp” Board of Directors he has no opposition any attempt on William’s part is considered but a statement such as the final paragraph in minute 634 (date November 1939).
I suppose I have much to be thankful for but it is irksome to see the despotic power wielded by Robbins with no one to say him nay—not even to criticise. You can see why he objects to my having the minutes.
I must apologise for breaking my word that I would not refer to the affair again but some things just get under my skin and my inability to do anything and the inability of anyone else to curb or criticise makes me foam at the mouth, pray forgive me.
Lola joins in sending you, William and Tristan all the best in the world.
Yours,
Bob.
The Straits Times, 16 March 1940, Page 2, The Straits Times, 18 March 1940, Page 4, The Straits Times, 20 March 1940, Page 2 MALAYAN COLLIERIES LIMITED. (Incorporated in the F.M S.) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Twenty-Sixth Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Company will be held at the Registered Office of the Company, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur, on Friday, 29th March 1940 at noon. (Etc.). By Order of the Board, J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd. K.L. 19th March, 1940
The Straits Times, 23 March 1940, Page 5 PROFIT OF MALAYAN COLLIERIES. 16 Per Cent Dividend For The Year. A SHARP rise in profit earned is shown in the accounts of Malayan Collieries which were issued yesterday for the year ended December last. After charging depreciation of about $288 000 the net profit, subject to directors' fees, was $ 620,775, compared with $551,139 in 1938. This has been added to $379,544 brought forward from 1938 making available $1,000,319. Three interim dividends of 3 per cent. each were paid and absorbed $309,006 and the directors propose a final dividend of 7 per cent. which if approved at the annual meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, will require $240,338. This compares with a total of distribution of 15 per cent. paid for 1938. The directors have written-off leasehold property the sum of $105,000 and shareholders are to be asked to approve directors’ fees of $20,000 and a donation to the Malayan Patriotic Fund of $5,000. The amount to be carried forward to 1940 will be $320,975.
The Straits Times, 29 March 1940, Page 5 Labour Disputes: Action Wanted The present rate of industrial activity in Malaya is not likely to continue unchecked, but a satisfactory first half year seems to be assured, said Mr. H. H. Robbins when presiding at the annual meeting of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., at Kuala Lumpur today. Referring to labour difficulties and labour’s “transition from the unorganised state, following its abandonment of the principle of the Guild or the paternalism of the contract system, to its inevitable and desirable organisation in trade unions,” Mr. Robbins said: “In the interests of this country, and of its industries generally, it is to be hoped that a suitable procedure can be evolved from knowledge of local conditions and experience in other parts of the world, wherein a reasonable degree of understanding has been established between employer and employed. “Unless and until there is a clearer distinction between methods of subversion and of reform, and much simplified procedure and more definite action in rooting out those responsible for the former, we shall continue to have trouble. “This is not an attempt to shift responsibility; we as employers are conscious of our imperfections, but we do try to be just and helpful, and given, as early as possible, the backing of a more definite Government policy, or of a policy more suited to local conditions, all legitimately concerned would be vastly better off.”
The Straits Times, 30 March 1940, Page 4
LABOUR DISPUTES: MORE DIRECT ACTION WANTED
Further Trouble May Lie Ahead
COLLIERY CHAIRMAN WARNS INDUSTRY
Until a much simplified procedure is adopted, and more direct action is taken by the Government against those responsible for “methods of subversion”—as distinct from reform—amongst the labouring classes on Malaya, industries will continue to have trouble, said Mr. H. H. Robbins, chairman of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., at the annual meeting of the company in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
Referring to the strike at the collieries during the year, Mr. Robbins expressed the hope that a “Suitable procedure” could be evolved to bring a reasonable degree of understanding between employer and employed. He referred to trade unions as “inevitable and desirable,” if worked up to gradually.
The company said the chairman, was expanding its plywood plant so that it would be in a position to supply all chests required by the Malayan rubber industry. With the lower prices offered by the company, the rubber industry could save $2,500,000 in two years and about $6,000,000 would be saved in foreign exchange.
The shareholders would wish the company to bear its fair share of Malaya’s direct financial contribution to the war effort, but the chairman hoped that this could be done without “increasing the already heavy burden carried by those shareholders domiciled at Home.”
The chairman said:
If we take the liabilities side of the balance sheet first, it will be seen that while capital remains unaltered at the figure of $3,433,400, the sub-division of the $10 shares into units of $1 was agreed at an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders on June 15, 1939, and duly confirmed at an extraordinary general meeting on June 30, 1939.
The actual sub-division has been effected in respect of all but a few shares which will no doubt be submitted in the course of time. As a matter of interest, I would mention that since the sub-division, the number of shareholders has increased from about 600 to approximately 700.
Sundry creditors and credit balances, including provision for contingencies, are very considerably up, due, in part, to heavy shipments of general stores, explosives and manufacturing materials and to a temporary provision for contingencies. The general reserve remains unaltered. The amortisation fund is higher by $50,000 in conformity with annual practice.
On the assets side, leasehold property shows an increase of $5,000, this being in connection with the purchase of a hill bungalow to which I shall again refer.
Buildings were added to by new construction, amounting to $98,151, and by transfers from plant and machinery and subsidiary undertakings, in the sum of $99,900. It was considered advisable to effect this transfer of buildings which were, for the most part, of the subsidiary undertakings, so that the accounts may mean just what they say.
General plant and machinery was added to the expenditure of $284,338, the principal individual item being a large electric dragline to further augment the stripping and opencast coal winning equipment. Additions were made to railway rolling stock and to the plywood plant.
Operating stores and spares and trading stocks increased in value by $65,630.50 and this, of course, is what might be expected under prevailing conditions.
Sundry debtors and debit balances less reserve is about normal for the turnover of the period.
Investments at $242,830.86 were increased during the year by a purchase of 4 per cent. Singapore Municipal Debenture Stock. Cash at bankers and in hand at $472,277 shows a normal increase of $53,922.
Bigger Profit
The trading and profit and loss account disclosed a profit of $620,775, which is an improvement of $69,635 on that of the previous year, but still $36,174 lower than the profit for 1937 which was the peak of our post slump earnings.
Working expenditure was down compared with the previous year, owing to the temporary loss of underground production and to an increased proportion of opencast coal, the stripping cost of which has been incurred in previous years.
Receipts were also down on much the same tonnage of coal sold, this being due to the incidence of low priced long term contracts, which are still current and to a substantial drop in the rail freights recovered.
This year was altogether dominated by the effects of the war, though it followed years spoilt by the threat of war. The year opened with a total domestic release of tin at 32 ½ per cent. with 28 ½ per cent. in the second quarter, which developed into an average of 75 per cent. for the second half year.
Rubber opened with a domestic release of 50 per cent. and averaged over the last half year 67.5 per cent, both figures being subject to an adjustment for previous overshipment.
Control Committees
Fortunately, the reserves of labour kept employed by Government and other employers during the slack periods of the past three years, together with the labour-saving equipment available, were sufficient to take care of the increased production of the industry.
At the moment, signs are not absent that, with the building up of stocks of tin and rubber at points of final requirement, the draw from this country will once again settle down to the replacement of actual consumption and wastage; and indications are that the trend of this year’s industrial activity here in Malaya will be the opposite to that of last year.
What we, in conducting your business, and those in charge of industry generally wish to avoid are violent fluctuations and their attendant dislocation and maladjustment, and in this we are largely in the hands of the committees which control the production of our two staple commodities.
As a result of the unavoidable heavy releases of tin during the last quarter of the year, labour became uneasy, and, although any increases in the cost of living were taken care of by a sliding wage scale, our labour force was induced to strike.
This resulted in the discarding of a system for which we had high hopes as a basis for eliminating, as far as possible, the human element in taking care of changing conditions. The system was based upon the tonnage of sales, which, as I have previously remarked, is a very fair barometer of the prosperity of the country, and incidentally of the cost of living; and it was this link with the company’s interests which was not considered by political theorists to be in the best interests of labour.
Problem Of Labour
I have referred from time to time to the problem of labour in its transition from the unorganised state, following its abandonment of the principle of the Guild or the paternalism of the contract system, to its inevitable and desirable organisation into trade unions
“In the interests of this country, and of its industries generally, it is to be hoped that a suitable procedure can be evolved from knowledge of local conditions and experience in other parts of the world, wherein a reasonable degree of understanding has been established between employer and employed.
“Here in Malaya, something following the spirit of ‘ the inevitability of gradualness’ is needed, and any attempt to force this country at one step into the adoption of principles which have elsewhere been considered right and serviceable with domiciled labour possessing full citizen rights, is, I am convinced, at this early stage wrong in the interests of master and man alike.
“Unless or until there is a clearer distinction between methods of subversion and of reform, and much simplified procedure and more definite action in rooting out those responsible for the former, we shall continue to have trouble.
“This is not an attempt to shift responsibility; we as employers are conscious of our imperfections, but we do try to be just and helpful, and given, as early as possible, the backing of a more definite Government policy, or of a policy more suited to local conditions, all legitimately concerned would be vastly better off.”
Mine Fire
Another unfortunate occurrence during the year was the loss of production from the east Mine, owing to a fire occurring at a particularly difficult point. The mine was promptly sealed off, and it is now a matter of awaiting suitable air conditions before an attempt at recovery is made.
Fortunately, no lives were at any time in danger, though the material loss, even if this is confined to damage to plant, will be considerable.
Fires represent one of the hazards with which we have constantly to cope and it is unfortunate that, in this instance, the fire gained the upper hand.
Progress with underground development was on the whole satisfactory, and this year should derive benefit from much of the work carried out.
For reasons which I have already stated, the demand upon the stripped reserves was considerable, and the value of such reserves to take care of abnormal demand was, and still is, much in evidence. The mechanical equipment at our disposal has enabled us, not only to meet the large increase in the demand for coal without competing in the market for extra labour, but to maintain a satisfactory tonnage of coal stripped and ready for extraction.
Plywood Chests.
A welcome feature of the year was the improvement in the demand for the product of the plywood section of our undertaking.
When last addressing you, I referred to the more satisfactory progress that was being made in the wearing down of conservatism on the part of users of chests. As a result of this hopeful trend, it was decided to avail ourselves of an offer of plant which promised an increase in the productive capacity of the factory of the order of 50 per cent.
When war came, the erection of this plant was almost completed, with the result that we were able to respond in a much more ready way to the demand created by the shutting off of supplies of chests from Baltic countries.
I have previously remarked that if the principle of support to local secondary industry in normal times is regarded by some as controversial, there can be no argument about the value of the production of such local industry in time of war. In conformity with this principle, we are still expanding the plywood plant, so that we might be in a position to take care of the full chest requirements of the Malayan rubber industry, if such should come our way.
As an instance of the value of the plant to the rubber industry and to the country generally, I might mention that imported chests of no greater intrinsic value than MalAply, are being sold in this marker at well over $1 each above our average selling price to estates this year, and at fully a dollar more than the average price at which we are at present offering our chests to users for delivery next year.
Such sales are helpful in assessing the value to the Malayan rubber industry of the local production of plywood. This, on the basis of a million chests sold this year would seem to be not less than $1,000,000 actually saved, while, judging by the trend of bookings for next year, the saving should be nearer $1,500,000; or $2,500,000 saving to the rubber industry in only two years.
Perhaps an even greater benefit to Malaya from the use of MalAply chests is the resultant saving in foreign exchange which, for 1940 and 1941 alone, would appear to be in the region of $6,000,000.
Big Figures
These are big figures and while they do not accrue to the benefit of industry and the State without the retention by us of a satisfactory profit on our capital outlay and to cover the risks and responsibilities assumed, we do feel that we are, to put it on a purely business basis, making a definite and practical bid for a continuation of support when more normal conditions return.
The saw-milling plant was re-housed and largely re-equipped and, after supplying the colliery requirements of sawn timber, it is fully employed manufacturing battens and planks for the plywood section.
The brickworks plant and wood distillation plant were not fully employed. The demand for brick was checked after the outbreak of war, due principally to the shortage of cement for general building purposes.
The war has set up an improved demand for MalAsote wood preservative one of the principal products of the distillation plant, but because of the difficulty in disposing of the charcoal at remunerative prices, the operation of the plant remained intermittent.
Though the existence of a cement manufacturing plant would, at the present time, be of great advantage to the country, it is doubtful whether, under present conditions, it would be wise to commit ourselves to the necessary greatly increased capital expenditure.
Meantime, however, the limestone deposits ate being check-drilled and the question will be given further consideration as soon as circumstances appear to warrant it.
Inherent Loyalty
It is with pleasure that I acknowledge for my own part and on behalf of my colleagues, the ability and keenness of the staff in general. Notwithstanding the strike during the year, I still believe in the inherent loyalty and interest of the majority of our labour force.
The provision of a staff bungalow at Fraser’s Hill has been under consideration for a number of years and with the outbreak of war, and the possible extra demand upon Government bungalows as a result of curtailed and postponed leave, an opportunity was availed of to acquire an attractive property. I sincerely trust it will prove to be an acquisition of real benefit and pleasure to all concerned.
In recommending a larger final dividend, and one in line with that paid in respect of the year 1937, your board has been influenced by the somewhat better profits last year, principally as a result of the improved returns from our subsidiary undertakings, and by the way the new financial year has begun.
That the present rate of industrial activity here is not likely to continue unchecked, seems certain, but a satisfactory first half year would appear to be assured. It would be more than usually unwise of me to attempt any forecast beyond that period.
There will be increased costs in more than one direction also difficulties under war conditions, that we shall continue to adjust and adapt ourselves to the changing circumstances and so, as far as lies within our power, to conduct the business in the best interests of all concerned.
Letter to Kathleen Russell from Bob Russell. TEL. E.4321 CADBORO BAY, R.R.1. BRITISH COLUMBIA 2nd April 1940
My dear Kathleen,
I cannot tell you how glad I was to receive your letter of 28th February (which reached me yesterday) enclosing a copy of William’s letter to his co-trustees, it, your letter, removed a feeling that has obsessed me, a feeling that I was a lone voice crying in the wilderness, that everyone’s hand was against me and that I was dreadfully alone, unable to do anything but re-iterate warnings that all was not well. I repeat it was a blessed relief to learn that the conclusion I felt was imaginary and I rather blame myself for thinking that the machinations of Robbins could really pass the intelligence of onlookers and for thinking that his (R’s) strategy was more than low cunning and therefore obvious to anyone not blinded by favours granted and favours to come.
It still seems superficially that Robbins has so manoeuvred that his position is unassailable but of course that cannot be so but, I do not see how I, personally can do anything but I would do whatever is necessary to put an end to this feathering of Robbins’ nest and his associates nests at the expense of the firm.
It is all so clear now that it was totally necessary for the furthering of his plans to have me away and silenced and for that reason at the time, knowing he was persona grata with you and Don, his threat was “Either you go or I go” and I had no doubts as to who would have been chosen to stay but I did not imagine that by my going I was going to receive the treatment I have and nor do I expect that you imagined that he would act as he has done.
This war has upset closer control as travelling is so restricted but I hope and pray William will not relax his vigilance and my full support is ready for any action he considers advisable—I think it is an anomalous position for one Trustee to have the control of the firm and when any other trustee criticises for him to retort the Trust and the firm are two separate entities and cannot be considered together altho’ the firm if the lifeblood of the Trust—the Trustees should appoint the Board and not one of them be on it—my firm conviction is that Robbins should be removed as a Trustee his own interests completely blind him to his duty as a Trustee.
If I could only do something and lose this helpless feeling but I am afraid my supreme trust in my fellow creatures (until I am let down) has been my undoing. I have never viewed the actions of anyone with distrust, feeling that they like myself never act with any ulterior motive—it may be a foolish form of philosophy but it is supremely better than going through life with a doubt about everybody and everything. There is I believe a divine Providence that metes out retribution to such as Robbins and other machiavellian tricksters.
I await the receipt of the minutes you have sent by ordinary mail with interest and may be able to add a few comments thereon.
Again many many thanks for your letter and for William’s action as I said above I have lost that ghastly feeling of being terribly alone.
Much love from us both to you both and Tristan.
Yours ever
Bob
P.S. As soon as possible, even if war continues, I should like to meet you and William. Lola and I could take a trip to England for that express purpose.
Letter to Kathleen Russell from Bob Russell.TEL. E.4321 CADBORO BAY, R.R.1. BRITISH COLUMBIA 11 April 1940
My dear Kathleen,
Two days ago I received copies of J. and R. Co. minutes and William’s letter of the 19th February, today by airmail I received copies of Robbin’s letter in answer and William’s of 14/2/40 and William’s reply dated 13th March, for all of which please accept my sincerest thanks.
I am entirely in agreement with William’s contentions, given from an unbiased position and appreciate his remark, which hits the nail on the head, that it is immaterial to Robbins what dividends are paid as he is drawing a very good income whether the Coy can pay any dividend at all.
What I would like to see would be that someone other than Delamore held the Power of Attorney for your interests, and it is obvious that as soon as the war either ceases or let’s up to enable us to go to Malaya all the shareholders should meet there and decide future policy—this juggling of the “Board’s Action” (i.e. Robbins's decision) and the “Trustees Interests” cannot be allowed to continue.
Again many thanks for keeping me so well posted on the position and with the kindest regards to you all from Lola and myself.
Yours
Bob.
Advertisements] The Straits Times, 4 April 1940, Page 9 & The Straits Times, 8 April 1940, Page 9 ,The Straits Times, 25 July 1940, Page 9, The Straits Times, 13 August 1940, Page 9 ,The Straits Times, 7 September 1940, Page 9 The Straits Times, 26 September 1940, Page 9, The Straits Times, 17 October 1940, Page 9, The Straits Times, 5 November 1940, Page 9 , The Straits Times, 3 December 1940, Page 9, The Straits Times, 19 December 1940, Page 9. METROPOLITAN- VICKERS. SELF-CONTAINED TURBO-GENERATOR SETS. LOW PRICE- SIMPLE- EFFICIENT As supplied for the construction of H.M. Naval Base, Singapore & to Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang, Selangor. One 1250 kW. and two 625 kW. Metrovick Self-contained Turbo-generator Sets installed in the Irwin Power Station at Moti Jhil, Gwalior, Central India. Also STEAM TURBINE SETS. TRANSFORMERS. ALTERATORS. SWITCH GEAR. METERING APPARATUS. And all electrical requirements McALISTER & CO., LTD Incorporated in Straits Settlements.
The Straits Times, 15 June 1940, Page 2, The Straits Times, The Straits Times, 17 June 1940, Page 2 ,18 June 1940, Page 2 PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD Notice of Declaration of Dividend No. 78 and Closure of Share Registers….First Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd., 14th June, 1940
The Straits Times, 19 August 1940, Page 4 AROUND THE MARKETS Unsatisfied Inquiries For Malayan Collieries By Our Financial Correspondent Singapore, Aug. 19. (Stock market report.)
The Straits Times, 8 September 1940, Page 7 $30 Fine For Sending Shares Out Of Malaya INDIAN COMMISSION AGENT'S OFFENCE. PLEADING guilty in a case which was described as the first of its kind, Nomanbhoy Abdeali, an Indian commission agent, was fined $30, or one month's imprisonment, in the Singapore criminal district court yesterday for sending out of the Colony securities, certificates of shares in several Malayan companies without permission of the Financial Secretary or his deputy. (Summary; letter opened by censor, sent to Madras, shares included Malayan Collieries, owner was priest in mosque, against the law to send out securities, accused didn’t know needed permit.) (569 words)
The Straits Times, 16 September 1940, Page 2, The Straits Times, 17 September 1940, Page 2 & The Straits Times, 18 September 1940, Page 2 MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD Notice of Declaration of Dividend No 79 and Closure of Share Registers….Second Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd, 11th September 1940
The Straits Times, 27 September 1940, Page 1 MALAYA’S TRADE IN WARTIME CONDITIONS Extract: “BUILDING MATERIALS. Cessation Of Imports From Australia. METALS AND BUILDING MATERIALS: During the past six months, the reduction in dealers' stocks continued. Sales were made at controlled prices, which allowed a fair margin of profit to dealers. There were a few isolated attempts at hoarding, more particularly steel and the heavier gauges of corrugated iron, but these were dealt with by the Government Department controlling engineering stores” (Summary: supply of metals ceased, export from England only under license, limited supplies, merchants turn to US and Canada, prices higher, deliveries slow, diversion of shipping via cape means shortage of cement)“Considerable difficulty was experienced in obtaining supplies of suitable veneer chests for packing rubber owing to the complete cutting off of supplies from Europe, and quite a large number of estates began to bale rubber in hessian cloth. The shortage of chests was relieved to a great extent by supplies from Malayan Collieries and shipments from Canada, China and Japan, but I think that packing in bales will remain a greater permanent feature of the rubber trade.” also printed in The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 27 September 1940, Page 6 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND WAR TAXATION. Labour Problems Discussed By Chamber Of Commerce. Scheme Should Be For Definite Period. GOVERNMENT CONTROL AND LABOUR PROBLEMS DISCUSSED. A COMPREHENSIVE review of trading conditions in Malaya during the first half of this year was given by Mr. J. I. Dawson, chairman, when addressing the half yearly meeting of the Singapore Chamber of Commerce Yesterday. (7558 words)
The Straits Times, 15 October 1940, Page 11 & The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser,15 October 1940, Page 11 MILITARY FUNERAL FOR K.L. CRASH VICTIM (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Oct. 14. THE funeral of Mr. J. J. Spall, a young mining engineer of Anglo Oriental (Malaya), Ltd., who was killed yesterday morning In a car accident in Batu Road, took place this morning at the Cheras Road cemetery. • The deceased came to Malaya in 1938 from England and joined the company on Sept.11, 1939. He was attached to Rawang Tin Fields as an engineer and leaves behind his mother in England and two brothers, one of them being Mr. F.G. Spall, employed by the Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang. The Rev. Mr. J.G. Hall conducted the service at the graveside. • Mr. Spall was an enthusiastic Volunteer and had recently completed a period in camp. He was also an accomplished musician and had a host of friends. He was given a military funeral.
The Straits Times, 16 November 1940, Page 4 MALAYAN COLLIERIES RECORD PRODUCTION. PRODUCTION from Malayan Collieries' mine at Batu Arang this year will constitute a record in the quarter of a century of the company's existence, states the Malay Mail. • For the nine months up to and including September this year production amounted to 598,671 tons valued at $4,??9,020, according to figures published in the Quarterly Bulletin of the Mines Department. • This output compares with a total production for the whole of 1939 of 441,025 tons, valued at $2,431,073. • Production on an average monthly basis of roughly 65,000 tons, should easily exceed the company’s previous record annual output of 661,514 tons (value $3,902,620) in 1929. • On only one other occasion in the company’s history has the annual output exceeded 600,000 tons. That was in 1937, when 628,943 tons, valued at $3,320,000 were produced. • The bulk of Batu Arang coal is consumed in Malaya. Only 45,171 tons valued at $231,735, were exported during the first nine months of this year. •
The Straits Times, 16 November 1940, Page 10 Former Head Of Straits Trading Company Dies. (From Our Own Correspondent.) London, Nov. 16. MR. Walter Frederick Nutt, managing director of the Straits Trading Company from 1918 to 1921 and a former member of both the Federal and Legislative Councils, died in London yesterday after an operation. Mr. Nutt was in Selangor as manager of the company’s offices for 11 years, and his public services were so highly thought of that upon his departure for Singapore in 1918, the Selangor Chamber of Commerce gave him a farewell dinner at which the chairman Mr. J.A. Russell, proposed to commemorate his work by the presentation of two fighting planes. Mr. Nutt joined the company in July, 1895, in Perak and served as agent in various districts until his appointment as Selangor branch manager in 1907. 0. He remained there until his transfer to Singapore as managing director of the company in 1918, in which position he served for four years. 0. Mr. Nutt was a member of the Legislative Council from 1919 to 1922, following previous long service on the Federal Council, while stationed in Kuala Lumpur. 0. He received the Officership of the Order of the British Empire for war-time services. 0. While in Selangor, and later in Singapore, Mr. Nutt held the directorships’ of many companies, indicating that his services were much in demand in the commercial world. 0. On leaving Malaya, Mr. Nutt spent a period in England before going to Java for three years for Francis Peek and Co. He then retired to England and took up residence at Bournemouth. 0. Mr. Nutt had great charm of manner and he left a host of friends who remembered him for his hospitality both in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. 0. Yachting was his principal relaxation. 0. Mr. Nutt was a founder member and first president of the Royal Singapore Yacht Club. 0. He was in Singapore two years ago. 0. He leaves two daughters Mrs. L. R. Daines and Mrs. Bruce Brooke. 0. The Straits Trading Company’s offices in Singapore were closed to-day as mark of respect.(Photograph)
The Straits Times, 13 December 1940, Page 2, The Straits Times, 14 December 1940, Page 5, The Straits Times, 16 December 1940, Page 2 MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD. Notice of Declaration of Dividend No 80 and Closure of Share Registers Third Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co., Ltd., 12th December, 1940
J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd. News and other Sources 1940
RUSSELL & CO., J. A.
Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Buildings, Kuala Lumpur.
Telegraphic Address :-“Jar”
Codes – Private, Boe (Shipping), Imperial Combination (Mining) Acme & Bentley’s (General), Standard.
Mang. Director H. H. Robbins
(Chairman)
Director A. W. Delamore
Do. J. Drysdale
Do. J. H. Clarkson
Staff in Alphabetical order
S. Brown F. J. B. Maggs
(Secretary) D. C. McDougall
A. E, Llewellyn A. J. Mearns
R. G. Pash
General Managers & Secretaries: Malayan Collieries, Ltd.
Managing Agents & Secretaries
Boh Plantations, Ltd.
The Netherlands Indies Commercial Agricultural & Mining Co., Ltd.
Managing Proprietors :
Sungei Tua Estates, Batu Caves
Bukit Bisa Estate, Kajang.
Sintok Mines, Kedah
BUKIT BISA ESTATE
Postal Address—Kajang
Proprietors—J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd. Kuala Lumpur
Visiting Superintendent—A. H. Frugtniet
General Managers—J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd. Kuala Lumpur.
Acreage—Total 197, cultivated (Rubber) 196
BOH PLANTATIONS, LTD.
(Incorporated in F. M. S.)
Head Office-Hongkong & Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur
Director H. H. Robbins
Do. J. H. Clarkson
Managing Agents & Secretaries—J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd. Kuala Lumpur.
Boh Estate
Postal Address—Cameron Highlands, Ringlet P.O.
Telegraphic Address-"Boh Estate" Ringlet
Telephone No. Ringlet 328
Distance from Railway Station—Tapah Road, 42 miles.
Distance from Telegraph office—Ringlet 6 miles.
Superintendent G. Fairlie
Assistant A. G. McKay
Do. J. Robertson
Visiting Medical Officer Dr. W. T. Quaife
Acreage—Total 4,037, cultivated (Tea) 1,250
SUNGEI TUA ESTATE
Postal Address—Batu Caves, Selangor.
Telephone No. 16, Batu Caves
Telegraphic Address—“Sungei Tua, Batu Caves.
Distance from Railway Station—2 ½ miles.
Distance from Telegraph office—2 miles.
Proprietors J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd., Kuala Lumpur.
Superintendent A. H. Frugtniet
Acreage—Total 1,018, cultivated (Rubber) 1,003
TAIK HING KONGSI
13 ½ miles from Kuala Lumpur
Postal Address—Kanching, Rawang.
Head Office—Chan Thye Lee, High Street, Kuala Lumpur.
Distance from Rawang Telegraph office—4 miles.
Distance from Rawang Railway Station—4 miles.
Resd. Manager Mah Peng Kuan
Advancer Ho Man
Lessees Ho Man and J. A. Russell.
M. C. 1497, M. L. 3724, 3559, etc,
Port. Nos 1833,1752, 852, etc.
Total area—620 acres.
Plant—Three Oil Engines 200 h.p. each,
three Oil Engines 120 h.p. each, one Oil
Engine 150 h.p., one Oil Engine 80
h.p., five Electric Motors 490 h.p.,
seven Gravel Pumps, three Water
Pumps and 50 Monitors.
SINTOK MINES
Sintok, Kedah.
Proprietors & General managers-J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd. Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur
Post Address—P. O. Box No. 2, Alor Star.
Distance from Railway Station—Alor Star, 38 miles.
Resd. Manager R. J. Pascoe
Wolfram Lode Mine
