HC Deb 11 July 1949 vol 467 cc14-5
14. Sir David Robertson

asked the Minister of Food if he will inform the Scottish Co-operative Wholesale Society that their employees enjoy the same rights as all other citizens to register for rationed and other goods with traders of their own selection, and that threats of economic compulsion must not be used against them in future.

Mr. Strachey

As the Board of the Scottish Co-operative Wholesale Society already allow their employees complete freedom of choice of retailers when registering for rationed foods, I do not feel called upon to take any action.

Sir D. Robertson

Does the right hon. Gentleman deny that the Scottish Co-operative Wholesale Society wrote to their workers threatening them with dismissal unless they registered with and purchased from them, and that that letter was withdrawn?

Mr. Strachey

As I understand the circumstances the manager of one branch wrote a letter which the Scottish Co-operative Wholesale Society immediately repudiated.

Sir D. Robertson

Is there any reason why there should be any misunderstanding in the mind of the right hon. Gentleman, because I sent him the letter in question? It was signed by the northern area manager and was addressed to all branch managers and concerned all the employees of the Society in that area?

Mr. Strachey

As a matter of fact, it was the manager of the Golspie branch.

Sir D. Robertson

On a point of Order. In view of the misrepresentation to the House on this matter, I beg to give notice that I shall raise it on the Adjournment.