§ Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that members of the A.E.U. have been waiting since last July for a reply to their request for an increase in their net wages of £3 14s. 10d. per week; and if, in view of this delay, he will convene a conference of representatives of the Ministry of Labour, the Admiralty, the employers and the men to settle this question and consider the appointment of a Select Committee to inquire how to prevent such delays in the negotiating machinery, which hinder the present war effort and will prejudice the chances of trade recovery after the war.
§ The Prime MinisterAs regards the first part of the Question, I am informed that the Engineering and Allied Employers National Federation met the National Engineering Joint Trades Movement on 18th January, when the unions submitted their application for a substantial advance on the base rate to all adult male workers, time and piece work. The conference was adjourned to enable the employers to consider the application. A further meeting has been arranged for next week. As regards the second part of the Question the answer is "No, Sir."