HC Deb 24 January 1949 vol 460 cc557-8
46. Mr. Walter Fletcher

asked the Prime Minister whether he will appoint a Royal Commission to inquire into the question of the increase in unofficial strikes, and to recommend what strengthening of trades union law is desirable.

The Prime Minister

The records for 1948 show that there has been a most satisfactory decrease in the number of working days lost through stoppages of work due to industrial disputes, the total during 1948 being 1,944,000. This is the lowest yearly total since 1943 and compares with a total of 2,430,000 in 1947. I do not consider that the appointment of a Royal Commission is either necessary or desirable.

Mr. Fletcher

In view of the somewhat dangerous complacency shown in the Prime Minister's reply, does he not realise that the unofficial stoppages still constitute a great menace against production and the export drive, and would not his hand be strengthened in turning out the elements which caused these strikes from within those unions if he had the findings of a Royal Commission behind him?

The Prime Minister

I do not think that a Royal Commission set up with the terms of reference suggested by the hon. Member would be at all useful.