§ Mr. BOWERMANasked the Minister of Labour if negotiations have been proceeding between the Operative Plumbers' Association and the Federated Employers in Glasgow to induce the latter to agree to the Government training scheme for demobilised apprentices which have culminated in the Federated Employers locking out the members of the Plumbers' Association; whether it is the fact that that association has consistently assisted in all schemes for helping apprentices returning from the Forces; and whether the Labour Department will use its good offices in the direction of inducing the employers to agree to a scheme which will secure fair play for the apprentices and protect the members of the trade union from being locked out as a result of their efforts on behalf of the returned apprentices?
§ Sir R. HORNEI regret that an unfortunate dispute has arisen between the parties mentioned by my right hon. Friend. A deputation from the National Joint Industrial Council of the Building Industry is now in Glasgow and in touch with both parties to the dispute. This deputation has already seen the employers and the operatives separately, and has summoned a joint meeting for to-day (Monday), when it is hoped a settlement will be reached. Representatives of the Ministry of Labour have been present at all meetings, and are using every effort to secure the adoption of the apprenticeship scheme.