HC Deb 24 March 1938 vol 333 cc1366-8
45. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister what steps he is proposing to take to obtain the further co-operation of the trade unions in the production of armaments; and whether any appeal made will be coupled with a declaration with regard to foreign policy?

The Prime Minister (Mr. Chamberlain)

My right hon. Friend the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence and I had a preliminary interview yesterday with members of the General Council of the Trades Union Congress, and my right hon. Friend has invited the trade unions in the engineering trades to meet him and is seeing representatives to-day of the executives affiliated to the Engineering Joint Trades Movement. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative, but, as the hon. Member is aware, a statement on foreign policy will be made in this House to-day.

Mr. Mander

Will the Prime Minister be good enough to bear in mind that he is not likely to obtain the whole-hearted co-operation—[Interruption]—

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member is giving advice, and not asking a question.

Mr. Mander

On a point of Order. I think that if you will be good enough to allow me to put the question—

Mr. Speaker

I heard quite enough to know that it was advice, and not a question.

Mr. Mander

I submit most respectfully that, unless I am able to put the question, it really is not possible to judge. It is wholly relevant and connected with both parts of the question on the Paper.

Mr. Speaker

If the hon. Member wishes to put a plain question, I will allow it.

Mr. Mander

In putting this question, I mean it quite seriously. On this question of the co-operation of the trades unions in regard to foreign policy, will the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to bear in mind the necessity—[Interruption]. Will he appreciate the point that he will not get their co-operation unless there is national unity on foreign policy?

Mr. De la Bère

What a funny idea the hon. Member has about national unity.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Is the right hon Gentleman aware that there is considerable apprehension among the workers in the country as to the purpose for which these arms are required?