asked the Minister of Labour how many days' work were lost owing to strikes from 1st August, 1945, to the most recent date for which figures are available; and how many days were lost in the comparable period from 1st January, 1919.

The number of days lost 'through stoppages of work arising out of industrial disputes between 1st August, 1945, and 31st December, 1946, was 3,75o,ooo. In the corresponding period beginning 1st January, 1919, the number of days lost was about 40 million.

While these figures are truly gratifying, and while the right hon. Gentleman is entitled to be pleased with them, is it not a fact that the numerous shortages in production in 1919 were very much less than they are now?