HC Deb 20 February 1918 vol 103 c742
70. Mr. CROOKS

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller whether he is aware that stevedores in the Port of London are not being kept in full employment and their wages have been considerably reduced in consequence; and whether arrangements will be made to divert some of this labour to other ports where adequate employment could be found?

Mr. BECK

My hon. Friend has asked me to reply. I am aware of the circumstances referred to by my hon. Friend. The Departments concerned have for some considerable time past been endeavouring to arrive at an arrangement for rendering surplus labour in ports mobile and available for work in other ports in which it is, from time to time, required; negotiations are still continuing in the hope of arriving at a solution of this problem which will be acceptable to the various interests involved.

Mr. CROOKS

Is that in London?

Mr. BECK

Yes, in London, and everywhere.