HC Deb 16 February 1948 vol 447 cc824-5
45. Mr. Lipson

asked the Prime Minister if he has discussed with the T.U.C. the abolition of restrictive practices as a means of increasing production; and what progress has been made to bring this about.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

I presume that the hon. Member's Question refers to practices covered by the Restoration of Pre-War Trade Practices Act, 1942. This matter has been discussed by my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Labour and National Service, with the National Joint Advisory Council, and on their recommendation the fixing of the appointed day under the Act has been deferred until the 31st December, 1948.

Mr. Lipson

Are there not other restrictive practices delaying production, and would it not be just as well to discuss them too, in view of the necessity to increase production and the needs of the time?

The Prime Minister

Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a Question on that to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour?