HC Deb 30 March 1939 vol 345 c2194
6. Mr. Kirby

asked the Minister of Labour whether the discussions with the National Council of Port Labour Employers has led to a preliminary agreement as to the registration of dock workers and the decasualisation of labour; and whether such agreement includes the guarantee of a full week's work and holidays with pay?

Mr. E. Brown

The discussion with the representatives of the National Council of Port Labour Employers, to which I presume the hon. Member refers, took place at their suggestion for the purpose of elucidating certain points arising in connection with discussions which they are carrying on with the representatives of the trade unions with a view to making joint proposals for the decasualisation of labour. There was, therefore, no question of formulating any agreement at that meeting.

Mr. Kirby

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the negotiation that is going on is satisfactory to all interests concerned?

Mr. Brown

We have been discussing, in the preliminary stage, proposals that were made, but I should prefer to say no more at the moment.