§ Mr. W. THORNEI beg to ask the Minister of Munitions a question, of which I have given him private notice, namely: Whether he is aware that some hundreds of workmen engaged in munitions work at the Cleveland Bridge and Engineering Company, the Railway Plant Company, Limited, Messrs. Thomas Summerson and Sons, and the Whessoe Foundry Company, Limited, of Darlington, are now idle in consequence of the firms named deliberately provoking a strike of labourers; whether he is aware that the North-East Coast engineering employers three months ago granted all workmen an advance of 4s. per week in accordance with the terms of the agreement peacefully arrived at, and that in accordance with long-standing custom such agreement governs labour conditions of the firms at Darlington; that the latter have granted the 4s. per week advance to skilled workmen, but will only offer 2s. to labourers; that the firms refuse arbitration; and if he intends taking action under any powers he may possess?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEI am aware of the dispute at Darlington. Until the Munitions of War Bill becomes law I have no power in the matter.
§ Mr. THORNEWill not the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to use some pressure upon these particular firms, because they have absolutely refused arbitration? I personally believe in the right hon. Gentleman using his good offices, and, if he does, it will be possible to settle this strike before the Bill becomes law.
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEI hope the Bill will become law to-night. [HON. MEMBERS: "To-morrow!"] Then I think I shall be able to settle this dispute.