§ 69. Mr. EMERYasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that, owing to a dispute between two trades unions, the construction of flats in Salford for the re-housing of people from a clearance area is being held up and what steps he proposes to take to have the clearance order carried out?
§ Mr. SHAKESPEAREThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, the carrying out of the clearance order is a matter for the local authority, and though my right hon. Friend is not in a position to intervene in the trade dispute, his officers are keeping close touch with the officers of the local authority so as to be able to assist in any way possible.
§ Mr. EMERYIs the Minister aware that this dispute has now extended over a period of six months, that the men decline to acknowledge the instructions of their own trade union leaders, and that 400 people are at present being debarred from enjoying decent living conditions? In view of that, will the Minister consider instructing the local authority to get on with the work and let the men settle the trouble afterwards?