§ Mr. NANNETTIasked whether some months ago the Irish Department of the Government, through the Lord Lieutenant, promised to take steps to constitute a wages board for the settlement of trade disputes in Ireland; whether any such steps have yet been taken; and, if not, whether it is intended by the Government to take any such steps, whether by legislation or otherwise?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Lord Lieutenant has been anxious to have a conciliation board constituted for the city of Dublin with a view to the amicable settlement of trade disputes, and his Excellency has been in communication with a number of representative men in order to ascertain their willingness to serve on such a board. No definite arrangement has as yet been arrived at, but the matter is still engaging his Excellency's attention. The question of establishing a wages board for the whole of Ireland has not been considered.
§ Mr. NANNETTIIn view of the importance of the question, will the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to press them to come to an arrangement?
§ Mr. BIRRELLYes.