HC Deb 06 July 1939 vol 349 cc1470-1
27. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that employés of the Navy, Army and Air Force Institute have continual pressure brought to bear upon them to prevent them joining their appropriate trade union; and will he take up the matter with the Canteens Board in order to recognise the trade unions affected and negotiate an agreement that would clarify the position of these workers?

Mr. E. Brown

I am informed that employés of the Institute are at liberty to join a trade union if they so desire and that no pressure is being or has been applied to prevent them from doing so.

Mr. Gallacher

Is not the Minister aware that, while there is no actual restriction against their joining, there is created an atmosphere in which there is intimidation, and will he not consider the last part of the question, and arrange for a trade union agreement through the Canteens Board?

Mr. Brown

My information does not agree with the general assertions of the hon. Member.

Sir Frank Sanderson

Can the Government be expected to control the atmosphere?

Forward to