§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE (by Private Notice)asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he has any statement to make to the House regarding the appointment of shop committees in His Majesty's dockyards, and whether it is proposed to discontinue the present system of petitions?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAWe have issued to every employé in His Majesty's dockyards and naval establishments a draft scheme for the setting up in each case of such number of trade or shop committees as may be necessary, and in each case one yard committee. Our scheme outlines the proposed constitution, method of election, and functions of these committees. We have issued these draft proposals for the information of all concerned, and have invited officers, workmen, and workwomen to furnish us with any views they may wish to express upon them within fourteen days from the date of issue. As regards the effect of this scheme in operation upon the annual hearing of petitions, that must be left over until practical experience has furnished us with the means of determining how far modifications may be desirable and expedient.