41. Mr. T. WILSONasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that, owing to the firm refusing to pay the standard rate of wage, thirty moulders employed by Messrs. G. Hodgson, Limited, of Bradford, left their employment on 1st June; that the men offered to refer the question to arbitration; that the firm refused this offer; that this action on the part of the firm is likely to cause further trouble; and whether he is taking any steps to settle the matter in dispute?
§ The MINISTER of LABOUR (Mr. Hodge)The Chief Industrial Commissioner has been in communication with the Friendly Society of Ironfounders and the firm referred to by my hon. Friend respecting the differences existing between them as to wages, and it appeared the firm were not disposed to accept arbitration. As they are not engaged on work in connection with the War there is no power to require them to submit to arbi- 601 tration under the Munitions of War Act. The Chief Industrial Commissioner will make further inquiry in the matter.