HC Deb 19 February 1948 vol 447 cc1333-4
56. Mr. Lipson

asked the Minister of Labour what action he has taken to bring about the abolition or suspension of restrictive practices which have an injurious effect on production and which are not covered by the decision with regard to the Restoration of Pre-War Trade Practices Act, 1942.

Mr. Isaacs

If there should be any trade practices requiring relaxation the matter is one for determination through the normal machinery of the industry.

Mr. Lipson

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman is not consulting with industries to see whether anything can be done in this matter?

Mr. Isaacs

It is very much a question of letting sleeping dogs lie. If any employers' organisation in any industry think that there are practices which ought to be removed, their first course is to negotiate with the workers' representatives. From then onwards, if there is a dispute, we can intervene. We have no right to initiate discussions.

Mr. George Porter

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a new restrictive practice is now being introduced by the ship-repairing employers on Merseyside by withdrawing the production bonus paid to the workers in that industry?