HC Deb 08 October 1942 vol 383 cc1335-6
16. Mr. Lipson

asked the Minister of Labour whether full-time officials and members of the clerical staff of employees' associations, similar to the United Commercial Travellers' Association of Great Britain and Ireland, Incorporated, are reserved in their employment on the same conditions as are applicable to trade union officials and staff or the officials and staff of an employers' association; and, if so, will he give the necessary instructions to the officials of his Ministry at Plymouth?

Mr. Bevin

The machinery for dealing with the reservation of whole-time male officials and clerks of trade unions and employers' associations does not apply to employees of the association referred to or other similar associations which are not recognised as trade unions. Applications for the deferment of calling up of employees of such associations are dealt with by the district man-power boards under the normal procedure. If the hon. Member wishes to bring to my notice any particular case which has been dealt with by the Plymouth District Man-Power Board, and will let me have particulars, I will look into it.

Mr. Lipson

Is not my right hon. Friend aware that the objects of this association are to protect the interests of commercial travellers and to improve their status, which are the same objects as those for which trade unions exist; should not the association, therefore, be treated in the same way?

Mr. Bevin

If you have entered into arrangements with definite organised bodies, they can only deal with those for whom they speak. I do not think that this organisation is registered as a trade union.

Mr. Lipson

Will not my right hon. Friend reconsider the matter, in view of the fact that it is only because it is not registered that it is being treated differently?

Mr. Montague

Is the Minister aware that this organisation has nothing to do with the status of commercial travellers and refuses to touch economic questions at all?