§ * MR. HUDSON (Newcastle-on-Tyne)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the action recently adopted by the North British Railway Company in booking their spare engine-drivers and fireman to be called when wanted, whereby the men cannot know at what time in any twenty-four hours they will have to go on duty, or even if they are required for duty at all; whether he is aware that in consequence these men are often called for duty when they have been waiting for long periods and are retiring to rest; and what steps, if any, he will take in the matter.
§ MR. CHURCHILLI have been in communication with the railway company, and have received a reply of which I am forwarding a copy to the hon. Member. The company assure me that every effort is made to give the men as long notice as possible of the time when they will be required.
§ * MR. HUDSONWill the right hon. Gentleman inquire if men have not been called on for duty after having already been waiting for work twenty-six hours?
§ MR. CHURCHILLI am sending the hon. Gentleman a copy of the company's communication.
§ MR. KEIR HARDIEHas the right hon. Gentleman got any statement from the men?
§ MR. CHURCHILLNo, Sir.