HC Deb 09 May 1912 vol 38 cc579-80
Mr. FRED HALL (Dulwich)

asked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to appoint a Committee to inquire into the subject of industrial unrest, and, if so, how such Committee will be constituted; what, if any, evidence will be obtained, and from what sources to justify its recommendations; and whether the bearing upon the question of the presumed freedom of trade unions under existing law from responsibility for intimidation and violence arising from peaceful picketing under their supervision will be considered?

The PRIME MINISTER

I do not think that I can at present usefully add anything to the statement made in the House yesterday by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Mr. JOHN WARD

Is there any case on record of a trade union, as such, ever having been proved guilty of intimidation or violence?

Mr. FRED HALL

Is it not a well-known fact that many men unfortunately, in consequence of what is designated peaceful picketing, are prohibited from obtaining employment during times of strikes?

Mr. W. THORNE

Is it not the fact that men lose their employment because they are members of trade unions?