HC Deb 13 August 1940 vol 364 cc609-10
72. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Home Secretary whether he has now made inquiries into the case of Frank Aldred, vice-president of the Eccles Trade Council Labour party, who was dismissed from his job by the Eccles Borough Council at the instance of the police authorities; and with what results?

Mr. Peake

My right hon. Friend has made inquiries, and is informed that Mr. Aldred has not been dismissed, but has been transferred to other work, at the same rate of pay. There was, of course, no question of the policy giving any instructions to this man's employers.

Mr. Davies

Would the hon. Gentleman be good enough to make inquiries once again? Is he aware that it was stated at a meeting of this borough council that the man was dismissed his job by the borough council at the instance of the police and that he was given another job as an act of grace?

Mr. Peake

I have made full inquiries into this case. The police were asked to give their advice, and they did so, so far as I know, perfectly honestly. Having done so, they have discharged their duty. After that, the responsibility for the man's dismissal or transfer rests with the local authority.

Mr. Davies

Is it not dangerous that the police should take action with an employer to dismiss an employé, and does the hon. Gentleman understand that this man has never been told why he has been removed from his job?

Mr. Peake

He has, in fact, been transferred and not discharged.

Mr. E. Smith

Who was the authority responsible for taking action against the man?

Mr. Peake

Inquiries were made by the police, who gave their advice freely.

Mr. E. Smith

Who was the first authority to begin this action?

Mr. Peake

I am afraid I cannot answer that Question. I can answer only for the police.

Sir Richard Acland

Is it right for the police to send in this kind of report to employers?