§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Transport what information he has in regard to the railway dispute at Hull, which commenced at nine o'clock yesterday (Thursday) morning, and in which already 5,000 men are affected; whether he is aware of the great loss to the fish trade already felt; that it is calculated that 500 tons of prime fish have been lost already; and what steps are being taken to end the dispute?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)I have been asked to reply. I understand that, following a mass meeting, the men have been instructed so return to work this morning, pending negotiations with the railway company.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the hon. Gentleman aware that it is stated that it is now going to be in the nature of a "stay-in" strike, which will mean very great loss, and has he any information on that point?
§ Mr. BETTERTONNo, I have not; but we are endeavouring to get into telephonic communication with Hull, and have not yet received an answer.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYI am much obliged to the hon. Gentleman. He has a representative, I take it, at the port who is acting on his behalf in this very unfortunate dispute?
§ Mr. BETTERTONWe instructed yesterday our representative, an official at Leeds, to go over this morning if the strike be still in progress.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODMay I ask the hon. Gentleman if his representative there is safeguarding the interests of the workers at this particular juncture, as it is most important that we should have an assurance from the Government that the workers' interests are going to be safeguarded against all other interests?
§ Mr. BETTERTONI have not the slightest doubt that the representative in question will do his best to safeguard all interests.