§ Captain Pluggeasked the Minister of Labour whether he can make any statement on the strike of transport workers in North Kent; and whether he will offer his good services to settle the differences which are causing much public inconvenience?
§ Mr. E. BrownThis stoppage is of an unofficial character and is not recognised by the men's union which has an agreement with the company concerned. I understand that the stoppage has interrupted negotiations that were proceeding satisfactorily between the company and the union with regard to duties and schedules to which the men have taken exception. If work is resumed, negotiations in accordance with the constitutional procedure can proceed. In the circumstances, I cannot intervene in the matter.