22 MAY 1926, Page 2

* Mr. J. H. Thomas, addressing the Prime Minister said

:— " You answered us in the way we knew you would answer us, namely, that just as you recognize wo have done a big thing in acceptizr, the responsibility, we bolt sure the big thing would be responded to in a big way. Assistance from those who wero oppos- ing parties ten minutes ago is essential to start things on tho right road again. Your assistance is necessary, our assistance is necessary. We intend to give it. We trust your word as Prime Minister. We ask you to assist us in the way you only can assist us by asking employers and all others to make the position as easy and smooth as possible. The one thing we must not have is guerrilla warfare."

Mr. Bevin asked whether the Prime Minister's pro- mise of help implied free and unfettered negotiation ". in the coal dispute, since so many trades depended upon the resumption of mining. Mr. Baldwin hinted that he would answer the question in the House of Commons— the proper place. He added :- " You know my record. You know the object of my polley and I think you may trust me to consider what has been said with a view to seeing how best we may get the country quickly back into the condition in which we all want to see it. You will want my co-operation, and I shall want yours to try to make this country a little better and a happier place than it has been in recent years. I shall do my part and I have no doubt you will do yours." * * * *