§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that about 1,500 boiler makers are out on strike at Thornycroft's Shipyard, Woolston, Southampton; and if he is aware that in consequence some hundreds of labourers are affected and thrown out of work; and that the firm in question have refused to give the men temporary certificates so as to enable them to find work elsewhere in the docks and other places at Southampton; and if he can see his way to authorise temporary clearance certificates to be given to the labourers?
§ Dr. ADDISONMy right hon. Friend is aware of this strike, and proceedings under the Munitions Act are being taken by his directions against the workmen concerned. He has every sympathy with the labourers who, through no fault of their own, are thrown out of work temporarily by the unfortunate action of the boiler makers. He has, however, no power to grant them certificates as suggested. If, in their opinion, such certificates are unreasonably withheld by the employer their course is to apply to the local Munitions Tribunal. I hope, however, that the proceedings now being taken will result in a speedy resumption of work.
§ Sir F. BANBURYIs the union paying these men strike pay?