HC Deb 17 June 1912 vol 39 c1318
60. Mr. NEWMAN

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of a possible prolongation of the dispute in the Port of London he will confer with and ascertain from the Transport Workers' Federation what classes of goods and foodstuffs they will allow to be handled as necessary cargo; and whether he will make such decision public at the earliest possible moment?

Mr. McKENNA

The answer is in the negative. No "allowance" by the Transport Workers' Federation is required.

Mr. NEWMAN

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that wheat is a "necessary cargo"?

Mr. McKENNA

I regard wheat as extremely necessary for the feeding of London.

Mr. NEWMAN

Are the Thames lightermen unloading cargoes of grain at present?

Mr. McKENNA

The Thames lightermen are not unloading cargoes of anything.

Mr. NEWMAN

Who is supposed to be unloading cargoes of wheat?