HC Deb 21 March 1905 vol 143 cc649-50
MR. SHACKLETON (Lancashire, Clitheroe)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the trade union representing the operatives affected by the issue of Order No. 1,696 was consulted before such issue, or in what way was the opinion of the workpeople concerned ascertained.

*MR. AKERS-DOUGLAS

The Answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative; and to the second part is that, as I have already explained to the hon. Member, His Majesty's Inspector for the district reported to me that the operatives concerned would strongly object to the abolition of overtime in the making up of the articles named.

MR. SHACKLETON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say in what way he ascertained that opinion?

*MR. AKERS-DOUGLAS

I will make inquiry. I cannot say at present, but the report I have is amply confirmed by the fact that since the publication of the Draft Order no objection at all has been brought to my notice.

MR. SHACKLETON

Has the right hon. Gentleman not received repeated objections from people in Belfast?

*MR. AKERS-DOUGLAS

Not that I am aware of, but I will inquire and let the hon. Gentleman know.

MR. TENNANT (Berwickshire)

Will the report of the inspector be laid on the Table?

*MR. AKERS-DOUGLAS

I will consider that.