HC Deb 21 March 1946 vol 420 cc2032-3
53. Major Lloyd

asked the Minister of Labour if he will order a public inquiry into the restrictions on output prevalent among dockers.

Mr. Ness Edwards

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend is not aware of any necessity for this. Under the provisions of the Agreement of 21st December last between the two sides of the Port Transport Indus try, a Joint Committee of the National Joint Council is being set up to examine the industrial arrangements of the industry. My right hon. Friend has just appointed Sir Charles Doughty to be the Independent Chairman of the Joint Committee.

Major Lloyd

Is there not a consider able difference between the industrial arrangements in industry and the restrictions upon output? Is it possible that the reason for refusing this inquiry is that the Government are afraid of what would be revealed?

Sir T. Moore

Would it not be more advisable to set up an inquiry to consider the activities of the shop stewards' movement? That might explain matters.