HC Deb 12 February 1942 vol 377 cc1569-70
20. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for India whether, with the expansion of Indian war-time industry, Indian trade unions have been consulted with a view both to securing proper wage standards and conditions and also to promoting effective trade union organisation?

Mr. Amery

I will convey the hon. Member's inquiry to the Government of India.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the right: hon. Gentleman say whether any action along these lines has already been taken? Is it necessary to convey this inquiry? Surely, the right hon. Gentleman has some information regarding present and past action?

Mr. Amery

The hon. Member will appreciate that the trades union organisation is not nearly so powerfully developed in India as it is here, and, therefore, negotiations in these matters mostly assume a local aspect and would not necessarily come to my notice.

Mr. Sorensen

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that it is most desirable that trade union activity should be developed by every means in our power?

Mr. Amery

I have never discouraged it; on the contrary I have encouraged it.