HC Deb 21 June 1917 vol 94 cc1951-2
36. Major HUNT

asked the Minister of Munitions if any Report has been received from the Advisory Committee set up at his request by the Federation of British Industries and other bodies as to the cause of industrial unrest; and, if so, what was the substance of the Report and whether it will be published?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Mr. Kellaway)

I have received a Report from the Advisory Committee set up by the Federation of British Industries dealing amongst other matters with the causes of industrial unrest. It is not the practice in ordinary cases to publish the Reports of such Committees, which are regarded as confidential documents. Should the Federation express any desire to have it published, I will give the matter friendly consideration.

Mr. HOGGE

Why should the question of industrial unrest be regarded as a matter of confidence?

Mr. KELLAWAY

The question of industrial unrest is not regarded as a matter of confidence, but the Report which has been prepared by these gentlemen is regarded as a matter of confidence.