HC Deb 29 May 1919 vol 116 cc1407-8
48. Major NEWMAN

asked the Prime Minister whether he recently granted an interview to the Parliamentary Committee of the Trade Union Congress; whether he was informed by them that unless the Government reversed its declared policy with regard to the liability for military service, the treatment of the conscientious objector to military service, and certain other matters, a general strike would take place; and will he, before be gives the Parliamentary Committee the answer of the Government, receive the Parliamentary Committee of the Middle Classes Union in order that he may acquaint himself with the views of the union with regard to the demands made on the Government by the Trade Union Congress and its alleged threat should it fail to comply with them?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer which I gave yesterday to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Dulwich.

Major NEWMAN

Will the report of the interview be made public?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have authorised them to make it public if they wish, and I think it will be made public.

Major NEWMAN

Supposing they do not make it public, will it be published?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I said nothing that I have not said in the House, and I do-not care whether it is made public or not. I understand that it is to be made public-