HC Deb 26 March 1925 vol 182 cc615-7
54. Mr. DENNISON

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware that the percent age of unemployed in the iron and steel industry is more than double that of the average of all the other industries in the country, despite the fact that there is such goodwill that there has not been an industrial dispute in this industry for upwards of 20 years; and will he take steps to summon a representative conference of manufacturers, workpeople and others concerned, to obtain first-hand information of this industry's condition and to place before such a conference the proposals of the Government to resuscitate the industry?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)

I have been asked to reply. I am aware of the heavy unemployment in the iron and steel industry. The position of this industry is a matter which falls within the terms of reference of the Balfour Committee on Industry and Trade, who have, I understand, taken a considerable amount of evidence on the subject. On the question of a conference, I would draw the hon. Member's attention to the reply given by the Prime Minister on 11th March to questions by the Noble Lord the Member for Nottingham South (Lord H. Bentinck) and the hon. Members for Maryhill (Mr. Couper) and Stockton-on-Tees (Captain Macmillan).

Mr. SPENCER

Has the hon. Gentleman's Department considered the advisability of giving a subsidy to this industry in cases where iron and steel are going to other industries which are affected, such as shipbuilding?

Mr. SPEAKER

That question should be put on the Paper.

Mr. CLYNES

In the event of a conference not being desirable, will the hon. Gentleman, through his Department, take steps to confer with representatives of the men on the one side and of the employers on the other, as to how best to meet the difficulties of the industry?

Mr. BETTERTON

If the right hon. Gentleman will look at the answer given by the Prime Minister on the 11th March, to which I have referred, he will see that my right hon. Friend has dealt with that point, and I cannot go beyond that.

Mr. L. SMITH

Is it the case that the Report of the Balfour Committee is not likely to be produced for many months, or even years?

Mr. BETTERTON

I have no information with regard to that.

Captain BRASS

Is it a fact that the artificial stimulation of this particular industry in other countries is leadng to the depression in this country?

Mr. BETTERTON

I should need notice of that question.