§ Mr. CLYNESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the dispute affecting blind workers at the Blind School of Industry, Bristol; whether the demand made is for a minimum of £1 for men and 13s. per week for women; whether his Department can take any step; to secure these rates; and whether he can advise that facilities should be given for the consideration during this Session of the Bill for the establishment of technical schools and workshops for the education and suitable employment at fair wages of the adult blind?
Mr. BUXTONThe Industrial Commissioner's Department is aware of the dispute referred to by my hon. Friend, and so far as information has been received the demand of the workpeople is as stated in the question. It does not appear that the Department can usefully take any steps at the present time with a view to 1547 bringing about a settlement. With regard to the latter part of the question perhaps my hon. Friend will address a question to the Prime Minister as the matter is not one for the Board of Trade.