§ 1. Mr. Gallacherasked the Minister of Labour what is the state of the negotiations for a national agreement in the aircraft industry; and whether his Department has taken any steps to bring these negotiations to a successful conclusion?
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Brown)I understand that negotiations on various matters are taking place through the joint machinery in the engineering industry. I think that only the organisations concerned can give the hon. Member information as to the position of these negotiations. With regard to the second part of the question, I have no reason to suppose that the parties will not themselves be able to settle their problems for themselves.
§ Mr. GallacherWill it not be necessary for the Minister, in view of the developments in the industry, to pay attention to this question, and to ensure that the workers' committees in the factories shall have proper control?
§ Mr. BrownThere is a great belief in this country in responsible self-government, and it is important to know not only when to intervene but when not to intervene.