§ 62. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to a resolution of the Poplar Board of Guardians requiring that in all future appointments under the board there will be insistence that those engaged are members of certain specified trade unions which are affiliated to the Trades Union Congress; and whether the Government proposes to take powers to deal with this question?
§ Sir K. WOODYes, Sir. This matter is still receiving my right hon. Friend's consideration.
§ Mr. W. THORNEDoes the hon. Member think that the guardians were not perfectly justified in doing what they did, without the intervention of the Minister; and is he aware that he has no power over them at all?
§ Sir W. DAVISONIf the Minister has no power, is it not advisable that he should as early as possible take powers, so that public funds may be available for all efficient workmen, to whatever union they belong?
§ Mr. THORNEGet on with the job!
§ Sir W. DAVISONWe will get on with the job.
§ Sir K. WOODThe answer to both questions is that the whole matter is under my right hon. Friend's consideration, and he will certainly consider whether any further powers are necessary.