asked the Minister of Labour whether there are any trade unions who refuse to admit women to full membership; and whether, in that case, he will give their names and the reasons actuating them in such a policy?

Before this question is answered, Mr. Speaker, may I draw your attention to the last part of it, and ask whether it is in order to interrogate the Government upon matters for which the Minister is not responsible?

That is a, matter which is not under the control of the Minister, and I anticipate that that is what the Minister will say.

Are not questions repeatedly disallowed by you, Mr. Speaker, asking for information for which the Minister is not responsible, and as to which he cannot reply?

Had the last words of the question caught my eye, I should have struck them out.

There is a large number of trade unions with no female members. Whether this is due to a refusal to admit women members or to other considerations I cannot say, nor am I in a position to state the reasons actuating trade unions in their policy.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a very large number of trade unions welcome women as members?

Viscountess ASTOR:

Is the Minister aware that a great many trade unions do not admit women to membership?

Ministers do not control the trade unions.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that the hon. and gallant Member who put this question is one of those who introduced legislation to cripple trade unions?