MR. H. D. GEEENE (Shrewsbury)To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that, owing to the absence of protection for the men imported to work for Messrs. T. and J. Harrison, shipowners, of the port of Liverpool, from molestation and intimidation by union pickets, these men are unable to venture into the streets of Liverpool, several having already been assaulted when attempting to do so, and that in consequence it has been found necessary to provide food and lodging for them on the dock premises; and whether he will direct such steps to be taken as will enable these men to pursue their lawful avocations.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Akers-Douglas.) The responsibility for the protection of the men employed by Messrs. T. and J. Harrison rests with the local police authorities of Liverpool. I have communicated with the chief constable of Liverpool, and he reports that extra police have been employed in the neighbourhood since the strike began on 28th June; that they have prevented all interference with the men at or near 60 their work, and that though more than half the men now employed by Messrs. Harrison are not housed in the docks the number of assaults at a distance from the dock has been, in his opinion, small.