§ 50. Sir Charles Edwardsasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that a system of compensation obtains at certain Government factories, of which he has been informed, in place of the Workmen's Compensation Act, that the workpeople have been asked to declare which system they prefer, but the condition is laid down that those who vote for the Workmen's Compensation Act should 1901 give their reasons in writing; and will he see that this ballot be taken without any such conditions being imposed.
§ The Minister of Supply (Sir Andrew Duncan)Each employee in the Royal Ordnance Factories is free to exercise an individual choice in this matter, without giving reasons. Perhaps my hon. Friend will let me have details of any case in which reasons have been asked for.
§ Mr. Rhys DaviesWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that it is almost impossible for new employees at the factories to understand the form which is presented to them, and that, consequently, they sign under a misapprehension?
§ Sir A. DuncanNo, indeed; I have looked at the form, and it is really very simple.