HC Deb 03 November 1920 vol 134 cc363-4
20. Mr. STEWART

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that a certain disabled soldier who was unable, owing to this injuries, to follow his old trade as a stonemason was trained as a joiner at the Lord Robert's Memorial workshop; that he obtained employment with a firm of builders, and that the joiners' union refuse to admit him as a member, and have sent a delegate to say that the man's employment must cease, or else all the union men will be called out; can the Labour Department give an estimate of what such a man's training has cost the State, including allowances for maintenance during training and a grant for tools; and, as the above soldier's pension has been stopped because there are no grounds for further award and as he has a wife and three children, will he do what he can to assist this man and any similar cases which may be brought to his notice?

Dr. MACNAMARA

As my hon. Friend is aware, I received from him last night—and I thank him for it—the information which was necessary to identify this case. I am having an immediate investigation made into the matter, and will communicate further with my hon. Friend as soon as I receive a report on the case.

29. Mr. RAPER

asked the Minister of Labour if he will make a statement as to the present attitude of the various trades unions in regard to the employment of ex-service men who are not members of the particular unions associated with the industry in which they seek employment?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I am afraid I have not the information at my disposal which would enable me to make a precise and detailed statement on the point raised by my hon. and gallant Friend, and anything other than that, he will agree, I am sure, should be avoided.

Captain TERRELL

May I ask if any agreement has yet been arrived at between the Government and the unions representative of those in the building trade?

Dr. MACNAMARA

My right hon. Friend the Minister of Health and myself are meeting the representatives this afternoon. All I can hope is that they will agree to lend a hand.