HC Deb 01 December 1919 vol 122 cc26-7
51. Mr. M'GUFFIN

asked the Prima Minister whether, considering the wide- spread character of unemployment due very largely to the dislocation caused by the continuance of the moulders' strike, he will consider the advisability of using his great influence for a settlement of the points in dispute, as he so frequently did during the years of the War, seeing that the strike has now lasted almost two months with no immediate prospect of a settlement, but with the utmost hardship and deprivation to thousands of trade unionists who are not directly concerned with the dispute?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The dispute is being closely watched by the Ministry of Labour. At the present time the Engineering Employers' Federation and the trade unions concerned are in communication with each other, and I hope that it will be found practicable to have a meeting during this week, at which I trust progress towards settlement will be made.

Mr. M'GUFFIN

Is it the intention of the Government to take any steps to bring this dispute to an end? That is the point.

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am sure my hon. Friend knows that the Government have been doing all in their power through the Ministry of Labour, with that object in view.

Mr. M'GUFFIN

With the same earnestness as the Prime Minister acted during the War?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Yes; with the same earnestness; but the Prime Minister must be the judge as to the time for acting.