HC Deb 20 April 1915 vol 71 cc187-8
91. Mr. W. THORNE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether, in the event of a dispute between a trade union and a Government contractor, and the trade union or the employer refusing to agree to having the dispute settled under any of the three headings of the agreement arrived at between the Government and trade union representatives on 19th March, the Government have power to take action under any clause of the agreement in question?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

The arrangement arrived at as a result of the recent conference with the trade union representatives provides alternative methods of arbitration whereby questions in dispute between employers and workpeople may be referred for settlement. This provision has been communicated to Government contractors. The Government confidently expect that they will receive the full co-operation of all parties in securing that one or other of these methods of settlement will be followed, and that during the War matters of difference will not be made the cause of stoppage of work. I have no reason, therefore, to believe that the contingency referred to in the question will arise.

Mr. THORNE

In the event of a Government contractor refusing to submit a case to arbitration, what power have the Government to bring them to book?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I will consider that. I have no doubt the Government will be able to bring pressure to bear.

Mr. THORNE

If I repeat the question with regard to any firm will the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to bring that firm to book?