§ 34. Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has information as to the percentage of employers and employés, respectively, in the cotton-spinning industry which is in favour of, or in opposition to, the provisions of the Cotton Spinning Industry Bill?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)The scheme upon which the Bill is based was approved in October, 1934, by owners representing nearly two-thirds of the cotton-spinning industry. It is understood that the owners of about one-quarter of the industry are opposed to the Bill. I am unable to give any corresponding information regarding employés.
§ Mr. DAVIESHas the right hon. Gentleman yet had any representations made to him, from the Unions covering the textile operatives, as to this Bill?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANYes, Sir, some communications have passed.
§ Mr. REMERIs it not vitally important that before the House debates the Second Reading of the Bill we should have complete information from both employers and employés and their views on the merits of the Bill as affecting Lancashire and Cheshire?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANYes, Sir. We are doing all we can in that matter and communications and conferences are proceeding with the various interests.
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEHas the right hon. Gentleman had any representations from Scottish employers?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI could not say without notice.
§ Mr. CROSSLEYHas the right hon. Gentleman any reason to believe that a lesser percentage of employers is now in favour of the Bill than was in favour of it previously?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANNo, Sir, I have not any reason to believe that.