§ 38. Sir C. Osborneasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that 150 joiners and 50 apprentices have come out on unofficial strike at the Lithgow shipyards in Glasgow, where the company is tendering to build four fish-canning factory ships for Russia; what action he is taking to stop this dispute which threatens exports and creates unemployment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitelawMy right hon. Friend is aware of this unofficial strike and our officers have been in touch with the Clyde Shipbuilders' Association and the local officials of the trade union. The matter is now being dealt with through the shipbuilding industry's agreed arrangements for dealing with disputes. In view of this my right hon. Friend does not propose to intervene but our officers will remain in touch.