HC Deb 27 January 1949 vol 460 cc1104-5
53. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Labour what action has been taken to carry out the recommendations made by the Independent Committee appointed by him to inquire into the dispute between the B.B.C. and the Musicians' Union.

Mr. Isaacs

The Independent Committee's award concerning fees for casual studio broadcasts has been accepted by the parties and is being implemented. I understand that the Committee's recommendations on the other questions are still under consideration.

Mr. Davies

Could the Minister inform me whether any meetings are taking place between the B.B.C. and the union regarding the implementation of this and other recommendations; and could he further say, in view of the comparative success of his intervention in this case, whether he will consider intervening with the B.B.C. concerning recognition of other unions with which they refuse to deal within the B.B.C., as they are required to do under Section 8 of the Charter?

Mr. Isaacs

I am informed that the B.B.C. are now awaiting a communication from the Musicians' Union. With regard to the second part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, we shall of course be very ready to offer our services to the parties at any moment they desire.

Mr. Cooper

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the extremely poor personnel relations with the management in the B.B.C.; and would he arrange for some of his personnel management advisers to look into this matter?

Mr. Isaacs

It appears to me that a great deal of advice has been given to the B.B.C. by others than personnel management advisers. I think we should leave it at that.