§ 57. Mr. MATHERS (for Mr. LATHAN)asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware that discontent has arisen among the staff of the Newfoundland Government Railway by reason of the refusal of the chairman of the Commission of Government to recognise and negotiate with the Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, Freight Handlers, and Station Employés, a properly constituted and established trade union, although it has been shown that the union has in membership no less than 82 per cent. of the staff concerned; that it is fully recognised by the managements of the Canadian railways, and that recognition has been conceded to and agreements made with similar organisations acting for other sections of the staff of the Newfoundland railway; and whether he will cause inquiry to be made into the matter with a view to inviting the chairman of the Commission to reconsider his decision?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)I have no information on the matter, but am asking the Governor for a report.
§ Mr. MATHERSIn view of the fact that my hon. Friend can vouch for the information indicated in the question, does the right hon. Gentleman not think that here is a prima facie case of something that should meet with his disapproval?
§ Mr MacDONALDI am asking for a full explanation so that I may consider the matter. Until I have that information, obviously I cannot say anything.