HC Deb 17 June 1912 vol 39 cc1319-20
66. Mr. FELL

asked the Home Secretary if any progress has been made with the settlement of the lightermen's strike; and, if not, if any steps have been taken to have other men licensed to work on the lighters for the purpose of enabling the wheat to be conveyed from the ships to the flour mills?

Mr. ROBERTSON

I have been asked by my right hon. Friend to answer this question. So far as the Board of Trade are aware no separate negotiations with a view to a settlement have taken place between the master lightermen and their employés since the dispute commenced. The conditions under which licences may be granted to lightermen can only be varied by by-law made by the Port Authority. The Board of Trade have no jurisdiction in the matter unless and until by-laws are submitted to them for confirmation.

Mr. FELL

May I ask if any active steps are being taken by the Board of Trade to secure a supply of wheat to the mills?

Mr. ROBERTSON

That is a question for the Home Secretary.

Mr. CARR-GOMM

May I ask if the House will have any opportunity of expressing its opinion on this by-law before any change is confirmed by the Board of Trade?

Mr. FELL

May I put my question to the Home Secretary?

Mr. ROBERTSON

I have answered the question on the Paper. A supplementary question is another matter.