§ 2.34 p.m.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask His Majesty's Government whether any figures can be given showing the loss to (a) the country and (b) the workers, of the recent dock strike.]
§ THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (VISCOUNT HALL)My Lords, it is estimated that about 260,000 working days were lost by the workers directly involved. This represents a loss in wages to them of about £300,000. I am afraid that statistics are not available of the indirect loss of working time in other industries, or of the financial loss to the country, but stoppages of this nature have widespread repercussions, and the country undoubtedly suffered considerably.
§ EARL HOWEMy Lords, I would like to ask the noble Viscount whether he has any information to show to what extent this strike was due to the Communist Party and its directors in Moscow.
§ VISCOUNT HALLMy Lords, I have no more information than that which I have no doubt the noble Earl has seen in the Press.
§ LORD TEVIOTMy Lords, I would like to know whether any recognition has been given to those members of His Majesty's Forces who kept the country going in regard to foodstuffs during that period. They worked hard, as we all know, and saved the country from a serious situation. I should be grateful if the noble Viscount could tell me of any recognition given to them by His Majesty's Government.
§ VISCOUNT HALLMy Lords, I think the recognition which they had and which they well deserved has been fully appreciated by each of the three Services.