Nation IN BRIEF : WASHINGTON, D.C. : Negotiators Move to End Coal Strike

Bargainers for the United Mine Workers and the Pittston Co. continued marathon negotiations as they pushed for an end to a bitter strike by about 1,700 coal miners that began last April in Virginia, West Virginia and Kentucky. The two sides returned to the table after meeting behind closed doors at a Washington hotel, said Herb Fishgold, an aide to mediator W. J. Usery. Both sides are under a gag order, and it was unclear whether the same kind of progress was made during the latest round of talks as was reported during pre-Christmas meetings. The union said the company’s decision to end contributions to a UMW retirement and health plan and job security were the main issues.