HC Deb 08 December 1926 vol 200 cc2096-7
35. Commander WILLIAMS

asked the Minister of Labour what is the number of trades unionists in the Torquay Division who have been fined by their unions for working during the general strike; and in how many eases have negotiations, undertaken by his Department for the remission of these fines, been successful?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

Eight cases of the kind have been reported to me, and in seven of these cases action initiated by my Department has resulted in the fines being remitted. In the remaining case, the appeal which has been made in accordance with the rules of the trade union concerned has not yet been completed.

Mr. W. THORNE

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the names of the unions?

Sir A. STEEL-MA1TLAND

I cannot remember them off-hand, but if the hon. Member wishes, I can let him know.

Mr. CLYNES

Through what channels are cases of this kind reported, and has the right hon. Gentleman information as to how many Tory working men have decided in favour of these fines being imposed?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

As a rule, in regard to trade unions, I do not care to make any inquisition into their politics. I am not certain whether the right hon. Gentleman would wish me to. On the other hand, as regards the cases that come to me, they are reported, like other individual cases, whether as regards fines or unemployment benefit or otherwise, either individually by the men themselves or, on certain occasions, by the Members of the constituencies who represent them.

Commander WILLIAMS

Has not the right hon. Gentleman, in his position of Minister of Labour, a clear duty to help to remove any inequality or unfairness which may arise either as regards employers or employed in any of these questions?

Mr. MARRY JONES

Is it not a fact that the Government are now instituting an inquisition into the whole trade union movement?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise.