§ 26. Mr. James Griffithsasked the Secretary for Mines whether his attention has been called to the action of the management at New Mells Colliery, Somerset, in locking out two workmen in violation of Article 4 of the Conditions of Employment and National Arbitration Order, 1940, and of the provisions of the Essential Work (Coalmining) Order, 1941; and what action he is taking in the matter.
§ Mr. GrenfellI have made inquiries at New Mells Colliery and find that two men were asked to agree to a reduction in the rate paid to them for driving a drift and that they were refused permission to work on the old rate; the case was referred to the Labour Supplies Officer, and he has reported that the matter has been settled by agreement; that a new rate has been fixed and that the men are now at work in their own occupation in the same working place.