HC Deb 26 October 1926 vol 199 cc694-5
Captain PETER MACDONALD

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour what action has been taken or is contemplated in connection with the cases reported to him of men belonging to various trade unions who have been fined or threatened with expulsion and loss of benefits as a result of their continuing to work during the general strike; whether such action is not illegal, whether he is aware that such practices are still continuing, and whether in these circumstances he can expedite official action in the matter?

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

All the cases reported to my right hon. Friend have been taken up by the Department with the trade union, concerned, and a number have been settled. In some of the remainder, appeals by the members concerned are being dealt with by the unions in accordance with their rules, and, in regard to the rest, the Department is in communication with the unions. I cannot express an opinion as to whether the actions complained of are contrary to law or to the rules of the union. As to the continuance of these fines, only one recent case has been reported. My Department is doing all that it can to expedite settlements.

Mr. CLYNES

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there are many thousands of cases of workmen who have been penalised by employers, and who have been refused resumption of work because they struck?

Mr. BETTERTON

If the right hon. Gentleman is referring to alleged victimisation by employers, complaints have been made by one or two unions as to alleged victimisation, and we have taken these up with the employers concerned. Some cases have been settled, and others are still under consideration.

Mr. STEPHEN

Has the hon. Gentleman taken up the victimisation in the case of the Corporation Tramway employés in Glasgow?

Mr. SPEAKER

In particular cases, notice ought to be given.

Mr. B. SMITH

What action have the Government taken with their own employés who have been victimised as the result of the strike?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is another question.