67 Mr. J. JONESasked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that inquiries have long since been completed, a definite date has been fixed for the establishment of a trade board in Ireland for the hairdressing trade; and whether the establishment of a trade board for the grocery and provisions trade in Ireland is being considered?
§ Colonel GREIGBefore this question is put, may I submit that this is not a question which can be answered by the Minister of Labour, inasmuch as it deals with one of the subjects reserved to the Irish Government, and as there is legislation setting up a trades board in reference to hairdressers in Ireland, no question on the subject should be put here.
§ Mr. SPEAKERMy understanding is that there have been proceedings with regard to setting up this trade board in Ireland, and it would be in order to ask if they have been brought to a termination.
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Sir Montague Barlow)We are preparing the ground with a view to taking definite action in the case of these two trades as soon as circumstances permit, but it is not possible to give definite dates for the establishment of the boards. My hon. Friend will appreciate that it is desirable for the future success of the boards to take the preliminary steps as far as possible with the agreement and co-operation of both employers and workers concerned.
§ Colonel GREIGrose—
§ Mr. SPEAKERI suggest that the hon. and gallant Member should put down a question whether this matter is not now one for the Parliament established in Ireland.
Mr. J. JONESHave not the employers and the employed agreed to the establishment of this trade board?
§ Sir M. BARLOWI believe they have gone some way towards substantial agreement, but in these matters it is desirable to carry with one as many persons as possible before the board is set up.