§ 14. Sir C. Osborneasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the dissatisfaction among Immingham dockers at the working of the Dock Labour Scheme for Grimsby and Immingham which gives priority of jobs at Immingham to Grimsby dockers; if he will vary the scheme, and establish a separate register for Immingham workers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MarshNo such dissatisfaction has been reported to me. I am, however, having inquiries made and will write to the hon. Gentleman.
§ Sir C. OsborneWill the hon. Gentleman take it from me that many of my constituents feel that they have had a very raw deal for many years? Is he aware that they have made protests to the branch that amalgamates the two smaller units and that the Immingham men feel that they always get the worse part of the choice because the majority of the men in the branch live at Grimsby? Will the hon. Gentleman see that they get a fair crack of the whip?
§ Mr. MarshThe hon. Member will readily appreciate that there are enormous numbers of people who have had a raw deal in recent years. We hope to change that. The day-to-day working of the scheme at any particular port is a matter for the dock labour boards, and my right hon. Friend has no powers to intervene.
§ Sir C. OsborneOn a point of order, In view of the absolutely unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter at the earliest possible opportunity.