HC Deb 05 April 1911 vol 23 c2210
Mr. LANSBURY

asked the President of the Board of Trade, if he is aware of the custom of the Shipping Federation and other free labour associations to hire offices inside the London Docks for the purpose of employing men; and, if so, will the Port of London Authority take steps to secure the removal of such offices from docks and other premises controlled by the authority?

Mr. TENNANT

I understand that the Shipping Federation rents offices at the Victoria and Albert Docks, and that offices are rented by shipowners and stevedores from dock authorities both in London and at other ports. The letting of offices on dock premises is a matter entirely within the jurisdiction of the Port Authority.

Mr. LANSBURY

May I ask whether any arrangements are in process or are going to be made for the establishment of a Labour Exchange, so that all labour may be taken into the docks from a neutral office rather than from the office of a federation of this kind?

Mr. TENNANT

I must inquire into that. I cannot give an answer off hand.