25. Major BARNESasked the Prime Minister if he can state what relaxation of regulations by the trade unions would increase the number of skilled workmen as distinct from unskilled workmen, and within what period of time such relaxation would become effective in increasing the number of bricklayers, carpenters, joiners, plumbers, and painters, giving the estimated period in each case?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the statement circulated in reply to the question put by the hon. Member for Spen Valley on the 22nd instant, which enumerates the trade practices, the relaxation of which by trade unions would lead to an increase in the number of skilled men in the building industry. Opinions differ with regard to the period of time required to make an appreciable increase by such means, but there is no doubt that the course would accelerate very considerably the restoration of the industry to its pre-war numerical strength.
Major BARNESCan the right hon. Gentleman say if there is going to be any attempt made to have a conference with the trade unions in order to arrive at a satisfactory settlement?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI believe there was a conference for about four hours yesterday on the subject.
Mr. J. JONESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the facts which were produced at that conference and is he now prepared to withdraw the charges made against trade unions?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, I certainly am not. Naturally I do not want to make charges at a time when we are endeavouring to remove difficulties. I certainly am not prepared to withdraw anything.
Mr. JONESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that the trade unions produced evidence to demonstrate that the charges which you made originally are not true.
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo. I know perfectly well the figures which were laid before the conference, but that does not in the least remove what I pointed out. I am very hopeful something will be done to induce trade unions to assist.
§ Mr. W. THORNEWill the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to read the report of yesterday's proceedings when it is printed, and he will find out for himself the true facts?
§ Mr. PEMBERTON BILLINGHaving regard to the fact that these houses are needed for the working classes, will he make an appeal to the trade unions to treat the housing question in this country 588 the same as they did the general production of war material during the War?
§ The PRIME MINISTERWe have already passed a Bill authorising local authorities to stop all luxury building in their areas.
§ Mr. BILLINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware—
§ Mr. SPEAKERWe cannot pursue this Debate now.