§ 82. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Minister of Munitions if he is aware that the boiler-men's case at the Clayton Aniline Company was heard on 10th and 17th May before Mr. A. S. Ashton, K.C.; if he 524 is aware that the award was given three days after and was sent on to the Minister of Munitions for endorsement; if he is aware that up to the present time no endorsement has been received; if he is aware that these delays are causing unrest in different parts of the country; and if he can give reasons why this question has not been settled?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYMy hon. Friend has been misinformed. No copy of the award referred to has, so far as I know, been received by the Ministry of Munitions for endorsement, nor is endorsement by the Minister required in the case of an award in respect of a difference reported in accordance with the provisions of Part I. of the Muntions of War Act, 1915.
§ Mr. THORNEIs the hon. Gentleman aware that although this award has been given in accordance with the statements made in the question it has not been paid up to the present; that we were led to understand by the arbitrator that it was sent to the Minister of Munitions for endorsement, and that is why the case has been held up?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYI should be surprised that that is so, because the Minister has no power to endorse it, and if he did endorse it it would have no effect.