58. Dr. VERNON DAVIESasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware that the Lancashire and Cheshire and North Wales Colliery Engineers', Boilermen's, and Brakesmen's Federation (Milnrow Branch) insist upon members who wish to claim exemption from paying the political levy having this sum paid to their funds, to be returnable on demand at the end of the year; that the Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies states that he cannot prevent this, but can only deal with specific complaints from individual members; and, seeing that this action of the federation is not in accord With Section 6 of the Trade Union Act, 1913, what steps does he propose to take in the matter?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)I have been asked to reply. The Chief Registrar received a complaint from a member of the branch in question to the effect stated and dealt with it in accordance with his powers under the Trade Union Act, 1913, in January last. It is open to any member or members who have a similar complaint to refer it to the Chief Registrar in order that, if necessary, he may take steps to remedy the complaint. This is the procedure provided by the Trade Union Act, 1913, and I have no power to take other action.
§ Mr. BETTERTONNo, Sir; I am not aware of that.