§ Mr. R. DAVIES(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that all efforts made locally have now apparently failed to settle the strike of blind workers in Man Chester; and whether, in view of that unfortunate result, he will indicate what steps, if any, his Department is prepared to take to bring about a settlement of the dispute?
§ Mr. BETTERTONI am aware of the dispute to which the hon. Member refers I understand that negotiations are proceeding between the parties locally. No request has been received from either of the parties for the assistance of this Department in the matter.
§ Mr. DAVIESWill the hon. Gentleman use the good offices of his Department to try to influence the blind asylum authorities to reinstate these men until the dispute is settled?
§ Mr. BETTERTONThe moment we receive official notification of the dispute, we shall do our utmost to bring the parties together, and to bring it to a satisfactory conclusion.