HC Deb 22 January 1942 vol 377 c392
5. Mr. McNeil

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will take all possible steps to ensure that employees of Lithgow's shipyards are paid on a Friday evening instead of on a Saturday, thus bringing their employees into line with those of all other shipyards on the Clyde, removing a cause of discontent, and securing a more equitable distribution of food in the Greenock and Port Glasgow areas?

Mr. Bevin

This question is one for joint consideration in accordance with the recognised procedure for dealing with questions affecting conditions in the shipbuilding industry. I understand that the trade union representatives of the employees concerned have the matter in hand.

Mr. McNeil

Is the Minister not aware that these negotiations, under the recognised procedure, have been proceeding for three months, and does he not think some further steps necessary?

Mr. Bevin

I am sure that the trade union executives and the firms are, in fact, meeting on this matter. Whether it was taken up with the executives in the first instance, I cannot say.