§ 80. Sir C. Osborneasked the Minister of Labour (1) in view of the fact that the last seamen's strike caused a run on sterling and created abroad the fear of devaluation, what steps he is taking to prevent from spreading the present unofficial dock strikes which are holding up exports and undermining the confidence of foreign bankers; if he will seek to take disciplinary action against all unofficial strikes; and if he will make a statement;
(2) in view of Her Majesty's Government's failure to settle the demarcation dispute between the National Amalgamated Stevedores and Dockers Union and the Transport and General Workers Union over which 2,654 men are on unofficial strike and another 1,689 are unable to work, causing 54 ships in the London docks to be held up, and thus hindering exports, if he will intervene to end this action which is against declared governmental policy; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GunterI had discussions yesterday with representatives of the National Amalgamated Stevedores and Dockers, the Transport and General Workers Union, and the National Association of Port Employers about the strike of members of the National Amalgamated Stevedores and Dockers in the Port of London. In the light of these discussions, I have decided to set up a Court of Inquiry to inquire into the strike and to consider whether any change is desirable in existing practices with regard to the employment of members of particular unions in the port.
The members of the Court will be announced as soon as possible. I understand that the Executive of the National Amalgamated Stevedores and Dockers are recommending their members to resume work.