HC Deb 06 December 1911 vol 32 cc1397-8
Sir F. BANBURY

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been drawn to the report for the quarter ending the 25th October, 1911, of the Burnley and District Weavers, Winders, and Beamers Association, in which the members are advised to shun the non-members as if they were possessed of some plague or fever, and to refuse to assist them in any way, or to associate with them; and, if so, whether he proposes to take any steps to prevent workmen being prejudiced in consequence of their refusal to join a trade union?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. McKenna)

I have not seen the report referred to in the question. I should, of course, much regret the use of language of the kind indicated, and I can only say that language which is calculated to lead to a breach of the peace can be dealt with under the existing law.

Sir F. BANBURY

Will the right hon. Gentleman allow me to show him the report afterwards?

Mr. McKENNA

Yes, Sir; certainly.

Mr. CLYNES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware many employers of labour compel their workers to leave the trade unions as a condition of employment?

Mr. McKENNA

This is a case of the use of language of a rather violent kind.

Mr. CLYNES

Is it not rather violent action on the part of the employers to impose that condition?

Mr. McKENNA

That does not arise out of the question.