HC Deb 08 July 1913 vol 55 c219
57. Mr. WILLIAM THORNE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a strike is going on at the New Explosive Works at Stowmarket; whether the Board of Trade have taken any steps to settle the dispute; and if he is aware that the men in dispute are willing to accept arbitration?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Buxton)

I understand that in the case of the dispute at the New Explosives Company's Works, Stow-market, the men are willing to accept arbitration, but that the company have nothing to add to the statement of their position made on 12th June last, when they announced their intention of not paying less than the standard rate, and stated that when the men care to return to work, the pay in each department would be carefully considered.

Mr. W. THORNE

If the firm refuse to arbitrate on the question in dispute will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiry and report the result to the Board of Admiralty, so that they may take action?

Mr. BUXTON

I can hardly do that.

Mr. GOLDSMITH

Has the right hon. Gentleman approached the company and have they refused the arbitration of the Board of Trade?

Mr. BUXTON

I had the company's letter in reply to the suggestion of arbitration.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is it not the fact that in the case of another firm the Board of Trade did inquire because of a refusal to arbitrate?

Mr. BUXTON

I do not think that case was on all fours. I will look into it, however.