HC Deb 16 November 1926 vol 199 cc1680-1
45. Sir F. MEYER

asked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to take steps, by legislation or otherwise, to protect the community from the possibility of the withdrawal of labour without notice or with insufficient notice from those essential services and industries on which the life of the community depends?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)

This matter and all cognate questions are under the consideration of the Government.

Sir F. MEYER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the strong opinion held throughout the country that, in the event of a recurrence of such an event as that which took place last May, not only the rank and file should suffer, as they did then, but those responsible for promoting and organising it should have some penalty put upon them to deter them?

Mr. BECKETT

Is the right hon. Gentleman also aware of a strong feeling in the country that this legislation should be accompanied by equally stringent legislation against the people who attempt to reduce wages?

Mr. SPEAKER

That seems to be a matter for argument.