HC Deb 18 November 1919 vol 121 c357
30. Mr. THOMAS BURN

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has received a resolution from the Belfast Flax-dressers' and Linen Workers' Trade Union alleging that the flax-dressers of Johnstone and Kilbirnie are paid 63s. 6d. for a forty-seven-hour week and that textile workers in England are paid on a forty-eight-hour week, and urging that; flaxdressers and textile workers in Ireland should be put upon a similar basis as to wages and hours; and what action he proposes to take in respect of this resolution?

Sir R. HORNE

I have received the resolution to which reference is made, and inquiries are being made into the matter.

Mr. DONALD

Has the right hon. Gentleman had an appeal from a Court of Inquiry into the circumstances at Belfast to set up a branch of the Industrial Council there, whereby these questions in dispute can be settled favourably both to employers and workmen?

Sir R. HORNE

I am not cognisant, at the moment, of the particular circumstances of Belfast, but if it is sought to set up a Joint Industrial Council I have not the slightest doubt but that it will be encouraged in every possible way.

Mr. DEVLIN

Does not the whole thing arise from the fact that these workmen are from this country, instead of from their own country?

Sir R. HORNE

I am not aware of that fact.