HC Deb 20 February 1924 vol 169 cc1731-2
30. Mr. SHORT

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has now received the Report of the Trade Disputes Disqualification Committee; and, if not, what action does he propose to take to secure an early settlement of the issue referred to the Committee?

35. Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will, in view of his contemplated statement of Departmental policy regarding unemployed benefit, be able to report definitely on the long-standing remit to the Trade Dispute Disqualification Committee?

The MINISTER of LABOUR (Mr. T. Shaw)

The Committee have not yet presented a Report, but they have resumed their sittings and I understand will endeavour to report at an early date. I think it advisable that I should await the report of the Committee before making any statement on the subject.

Mr. SHORT

Is the Minister aware this Committee has been in being over two years and we are still awaiting their report; and can the right hon. Gentleman do anything to expedite matters?

Mr. SHAW

I am aware of the fact I mentioned by the hon. Member. The next question will, I think, show the answer to the hon. Member.

Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

Will the Minister go into this matter personally, because it is two years since the subject was remitted to the Committee, and as it is of great importance will he do everything possible to expedite the Report'?

Mr. SHAW

I said in answer to a question previously, that the Committee were sitting. I have stated in answer to this question that I hope the Committee will present an early report. The matter is under consideration and it is my desire to have an early report. If I do not get an early report, it is my intention to press for it.

31. Mr. SHORT

asked the Minister of Labour the number of meetings held by the Trade Disputes Disqualification Committee since its inception and as from August, 1923?

Mr. SHAW

The number of meetings held by the Committee since its inception is 15. Six of these meetings have been held since the end of August, 1923, one as recently as Wednesday last. There was a break in the sittings of the Committee from the middle of November to the middle of February.