HC Deb 05 August 1918 vol 109 cc901-2
26. Mr. PRINGLE

asked the Minister of Munitions whether his attention has been called to a notice issued by William Beardmore and Company, Limited, to their clerical staff inquiring whether members of the staff are or have been members of the National union of Clerks; and, if so, will he give instructions that this notice be withdrawn?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I have been in communication with Messrs. Beardmore respecting the circular referred to by my hon. Friend. The firm state that it was necessary for them to obtain the names of those of their clerks who are members of the National Union of Clerks, in order to ascertain how many of their employés are entitled to an award of the Committee on Production in a difference which had existed between the firm and the union. They endeavoured to obtain this information by application to the Committee on Production and the union, but were unsuccessful. They state that this was their only motive in issuing the circular. No offence against the Munitions Act has been committed by the issue of the circular, and the Department has no power, therefore, to require its withdrawal.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is my hon. Friend not aware that the employés have regarded the circular issued as of the most intimidatory character, and can he not make recommendations to the firm in question that such circulars should not be issued in future, so that there should be freedom for every man in its employment to join whatever union he pleases?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I agree. The firm have stated that the issue of the circular in no way interferes with the freedom of the men to join any union they please. We cannot interfere until it is shown that the firm have taken action contrary to that principle. We shall continue to watch what is done, and if it appears that there is any action taken by the firm which interferes with the freedom of men to join a union we shall act.

Mr. PRINGLE

Has the hon. Gentleman seen the circular referred to, and does his interpretation of it not agree with the interpretation put upon it?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I have seen the circular. More than that I cannot say.