HC Deb 27 February 1924 vol 170 cc460-1
73. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSON

asked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the delay on the part of the Trade Disputes Disqualification Committee in presenting their Report, he will introduce at once a Bill to remove the injustices at present inflicted upon the innocent victims of a trade dispute who have contributed to the unemployment insurance fund and can draw no benefit?

Mr. SHAW

I am expecting to receive a report from the Committee shortly. It is desirable that I should be in possession of the Committee's views before deciding what action should be taken.

Mr. THOMSON

In view of the delay, extending over nearly two years during which the Committee has been sitting, will the right hon. Gentleman fix a limit as to the time that he is going to wait before action is taken?

Mr. SHAW

I shall take no steps as to fixing limits unless I am satisfied that the Committee is not making an effort to carry out its work.

Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that long before now the Committee was practically at a deadlock on this question and cannot arrive at a finding?

Mr. SHAW

The facts are, that immediately I came into the office that I now hold I asked the Committee to meet, and the Committee met immediately. Unless I am satisfied that the Committee has either come to a deadlock or has no intention of presenting a report, I cannot place a limit, which might be an insult to men who are working for the Government.