§ Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Labour what communications he has had from draughtsmen, etc., and the Shipbuilding Employers Federation about the lock-out by the latter of workers in the former; if he is aware of the loss this lock-out is inflicting on the shipbuilding industry and on the national trade balance; and what steps he has taken and plans to take to resolve the dispute, end the lock-out and secure the resumption of productive work in that industry.
§ Mr. GunterI have received no request from either party for intervention. I have had a considerable number of letters from members of the Draughtsmen's and Allied Technicians' Association, and I have just received a report from the Shipbuilding Employers' Federation setting out the employers' position following informal discussions between the 205W Federation and D.A.T.A., which unfortunately did not lead to a settlement. I am at present considering this report. I note also that D.A.T.A. will be considering this matter at their annual conference this week. I understand that production is at present continuing and that the employment of other workers has not so far been affected, but I am keeping the position under review.