HC Deb 02 June 1949 vol 465 cc2322-3
Mr. Stanley

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour whether he has any further statement to make about the situation on the railways.

Mr. Isaacs

Yes, Sir. I am glad to be able to inform the House that following correspondence with the General Secretary of the National Union of Railwaymen, a meeting took place late last night between officers of my Department and representatives of the Union at which the Union made it clear that they disapproved of the unofficial Sunday strikes and that they were anxious that they should cease. The N.U.R. Executive have now informed me that they have accepted the recommendation of their representatives at that meeting which will enable them and the Executive of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen to make efforts jointly tomorrow to ensure that the Sunday stoppages will not recur and so facilitate further discussions on the whole question of additional lodging turns. The Railway Executive are assisting in the arrangements for tomorrow's meeting.

Mr. Stanley

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the action of the N.U.R. will be widely appreciated and that everyone will hope that this joint effort will lead to success?

Mr. Gallacher

Not everyone.

Mr. Stanley

Not the hon. Member for West Fife (Mr. Gallacher), of course; I excuse him.

Mr. Isaacs

The remarks of the right hon. Gentleman are helpful and I am sure I am expressing the feelings of the House when I say to the men concerned that they should study not only the interests of the public, but the future reputation of their own trade union and carry out its wishes.