HC Deb 26 November 1945 vol 416 cc899-900
Mr. Eden (By Private Notice)

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has any statement to make about the strike of gas-workers in the London area; and what steps are being taken to ensure the maintenance of supplies of gas for the public in this area?

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)

Conversations are proceeding this afternoon and the officers of the Ministry of Labour are in contact with the parties. I should be very grateful if the House will allow me to postpone answering the Question until tomorrow, when I hope to be able to make a satisfactory statement.

Mr. Gallacher

As there must be something seriously wrong when men of this character come out, as they have come out, will the Minister take steps to see that negotiations connected with this matter are very much speeded up so as to avoid putting the men in such a position?

Lieutenant William Shepherd

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that these attempts to hold the community up to ransom are resisted?

Mr. Isaacs

I can only say that while negotiations are in a delicate position at the moment, any words which might be said might make the matter more difficult to settle.