Oral Answers to Questions — Scott Insulated Wire Company, Limited (Employes).

– in the House of Commons am ar 22 Mehefin 1939.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Walter Windsor Mr Walter Windsor , Kingston upon Hull Central

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the Scott Insulated Wire Company, Limited, of Queensland Works, Queensbury, London, N.W.9, dismissed 20 of their employés on 3rd May because they had joined a trade union on 28th April last; and whether steps will be taken to ensure that a firm engaged in direct or subsidiary Government contract work shall not continue in a policy of industrial victimisation?

Photo of Mr Ernest Brown Mr Ernest Brown , Leith

I have been in communication with the employer and understand that the facts are as stated in the first part of the question though the men were given the option of withdrawing from the union. With regard to the last part of the question. I understand that this firm is not at present engaged directly or indirectly in Government contract work.

Photo of Mr Walter Windsor Mr Walter Windsor , Kingston upon Hull Central

Will the Minister make inquiries as to whether this firm is merely a subsidiary of the Vogel Wire Company, which is entirely German-controlled, and whether it is part of their policy to employ non-union labour and to be anti-Jewish?

Photo of Mr Ernest Brown Mr Ernest Brown , Leith

If the hon. Member has any information, I shall be very glad to receive it from him.

Photo of Mr Frederick Watkins Mr Frederick Watkins , Hackney Central

Will the Minister say that it is contrary to Government policy for this victimisation to take place?

Photo of Mr Ernest Brown Mr Ernest Brown , Leith

Most decidedly, Yes.