HC Deb 09 March 1920 vol 126 cc1121-2W
Lieut.-Commander ASTBURY

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been called to the fact that in one of the highest skilled trades in the country sufficient men are not obtainable to cope with the present demands, and in spite of this the union which controls this industry, the Engravers' Union, are refusing to allow the employers to give work to discharged men who can be taught one branch of the trade in three months; and whether he is aware that a shortage of men in this particular industry will lead to a stoppage of the export trade in printed goods?

Sir R. HORNE

It is not clear whether the hon. and gallant Member refers to press-engraving or to engraving for textile or for wall-paper printing. If he would give me more precise information as to the industry and process to which he refers, I shall be glad to make enquiries.