§ Mr. C. S. Taylor(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour whether he has any statement to make about the strike in the London Docks.
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)Yes, Sir. Certain dockers at the Regent's Canal Dock were dissatisfied with the special rate of 3s. 4d. per ton negotiated between the employers and the trade union in respect of the loading of zinc oxide. The men's refusal on several occasions to undertake the work at this rate was considered by the accredited joint body established under the Dock Labour Scheme, which decided that the men should be suspended for seven days, and that entitlement to attendance money should be withheld for the period 30th May to 5th June and a further period of three months. The men exercised their right of appeal, and consequently these penalties were not put into effect. A tribunal, appointed under the Dock Labour Scheme and consisting of two representatives of the employers and two representatives of the Trade Union, heard the men's appeals on 15th June but failed to reach agreement. A new tribunal, similarly constituted, was accordingly set up under an independent chairman appointed by agreement of the two sides. The tribunal, the decision of which, under the terms of the scheme, is final and binding, met this morning and has, I understand, decided that disentitlement to attendance money should be limited to the period 30th May to 5th June and a further period of two weeks. I would point out that the benefits of the Dock Labour Scheme carry with them obligations on the part of all concerned, and I trust that, realising their obligations, all those now on strike will return to work forthwith.
§ Mr. TaylorWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him whether, in view of the fact that go ships, I understand, are still immobilised, 30 of which contain food and 19 of which contain perishable food, he has any emergency measures in mind to see that the food does not go bad?
§ Mr. IsaacsI dare say that, just at this moment, the men concerned have received 659 the decision of this tribunal. I would urge the House not to say anything that might induce them to take any steps.
§ Earl WintertonSurely, the right hon. Gentleman can state who is responsible in the Government in the event of a more serious situation arising. I do not wish to raise any question now, but who is responsible in the Government, the right hon. Gentleman himself or the Minister of Food? To whom should we address a Private Notice Question tomorrow, in view of the importance of this issue and the number of ships concerned?
§ Mr. IsaacsThe noble Lord will recognise that I am most anxious to choose my words carefully. I do not want anybody to get among these men and say, "Now, there you are, they are threatening this action against you." If the right hon. Gentleman wishes to put down a Question it can be addressed either to myself or my right hon. Friend the Minister of Food, whoever is the appropriate Minister.