HC Deb 06 August 1925 vol 187 cc1539-40
45. Sir W. SUGDEN

asked the Prime Minister if he will call a joint conference of employers and employés in the engineering, shipbuilding and ironfounding industries specially to consider their position, as exposed to foreign competition, in relation to other industries which are not exposed, and, by reason of their power of immediate withdrawal of service, compel greater consideration of their claims?

The MINISTER of LABOUR (Sir Arthur Steel-Maitland)

I have been asked to reply. Discussion of wages and conditions is at present proceeding through the normal channels in the industries mentioned. I do not think any advantage would be gained by calling a special joint conference.

Mr. BECKETT

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the wisdom of restricting the supply of cheap reparation shipping to profiteers willing to neglect British shipyards?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I could not catch what the hon. Member said. If he will put a question on the Paper, I will try to answer it.