§ 39. Mr. ROWNTREEasked the Minister of Reconstruction whether a Bill is to be introduced forthwith for securing the redemption of the pledges given to the trade unions; and whether he is aware of the growing distrust of the trade unions concerned, in view of the indecision of the Government in this matter?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe matter is under the consideration of the Government at the present time, and I can make no further statement at present.
§ Mr. ROWNTREEDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that this question is at the basis of reconstruction, and that the workers are getting into a very doubtful condition owing to the indecision of the Government, and can he say whether an early decision is really to be expected?
§ Dr. ADDISONWhile I cannot accept the hon. Member's description, I quite agree with him as to the importance of the matter.
§ Mr. ROCHIs it not a fact that under the last Munitions Act the restoration of trade union conditions are legally restored to trade unions after the conclusion of the War?
§ Dr. ADDISONThat is not so.
§ Mr. G. TERRELLWill the employers association be consulted before this legislation is introduced?
§ Dr. ADDISONI have no doubt that both sides will be consulted.
§ Mr. PRINGLECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether he got the opinion of the Law Officers as to the effect of the law regarding the restoration of trade unions?
§ Dr. ADDISONYes, we have sought the advice of the Law Officers in the matter.
§ Mr. ROWNTREECan the right hon. Gentleman say which Department is really responsible for this?
§ Dr. ADDISONAt present it is before the War Cabinet.
§ Colonel YATEDo not the Defence of the Realm Regulations cease to have effect at the end of the War?
§ Dr. ADDISONThis has nothing to do with the Defence of the Realm Regulations.