§ MR. H. S. SAMUEL (Tower Hamlets, Limehouse)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that certain employers of labour make it a condition of permanent employment that their workmen should not only become members of the firm's shop club, but should also sever their connection with any friendly society to which they already belong; and, if he will institute an inquiry with a view to its prevention?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENTMany representations have reached me to this effect, and though the difficulties of taking any action are obviously great, I agree that it would be desirable, if only for the purpose of ascertaining the facts, that some inquiry should be instituted. I have been considering what kind of inquiry would be best, and am inclined to propose that the House should appoint a Committee for the purpose.
§ MR. T. BAYLEY (Derbyshire, Chesterfield)Will the right honourable Gentleman inquire whether it is an illegal practice under the Truck Act?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENTSo far as my information goes, there is no illegality. I do not know how far the practice exists. Of course there is considerable feeling on the subject, and as I have said, if the House is agreeable, I will propose to appoint a Committee to inquire into the matter.