HC Deb 24 March 1942 vol 378 cc1800-1
37. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he has considered a telegram sent from the workers of a certain factory, drawing attention to the refusal of the management to cooperate with them on the question of increased production; and is he prepared to take any steps in the matter?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aircraft Production (Mr. Ben Smith)

I have inquired into this matter. It appears that the explanation the management gave of certain production problems at this factory was not fully understood by the men, who in consequence reached an erroneous conclusion as to the management's attitude. The misunderstanding has now been removed.

Mr. Gallacher

Would it not be a good thing to bring the whole of the workers more actively into touch with the organi- sation of production, instead of the attitude which is adopted in many places of the big boss at the top and the mass of untouchables down below?

Mr. Smith

The hon. Gentleman will know that an agreement has been reached with the representative bodies to set up production committees, the functions of which are set out, and which I hope at all events will have the effect of bringing managements and workpeople much closer together.