§ Mr. WALLHEADasked the Under-Secretary of State for India the duties of the labour commissioner in Madras; and whether he will take steps to satisfy the widespread desire in India for the enlargement of the scope of the functions of the labour commissioner, so that he may be able to intervene to prevent strikes instead of waiting, as he does at 1500W present, to inquire into the subject of a dispute only after the men have come out on strike, and then only after he has been approached by representatives of both the employers and workers concerned?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe duties mainly relate to the amelioration of the condition of the "depressed classes" and to the welfare of labour generally. The Government of India, in consultation with local Governments, are considering the question of legislation in regard to trade disputes.