HC Deb 05 October 1939 vol 351 c2069
15. Mr. T. Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that at some collieries in Yorkshire mine workers are being told that if they leave their present employment they will not be employed at any other colliery in the coalfield; and whether this is being done on any instruction from his Department?

Mr. E. Brown

The answer to both parts of the question is in the negative.

Mr. Smith

Will the right hon. Gentleman make it clear to coalowners and the country generally that the Control of Employment Act has not been put into operation in regard to mine workers and that this method is likely to give coal-owners powers to discriminate?

Mr. Brown

There is no justification for that at all. This Act does not operate until an Order is made and there must be consultations with both sides of the industry before such an Order is made.

Mr. T. Williams

As this action on the part of some coalowners confirms the worst fears of hon. Members on these benches when the Bill was before the House, will the right hon. Gentleman make it known to mineowners and others that they cannot prevent their employés moving as they wish?

Mr. Brown

I should be glad to do that, but the hon. Member will notice that my answer to both parts of the question was in the negative.