HC Deb 20 June 1950 vol 476 cc1039-40
11. Sir George Harvie-Watt

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has taken any steps to educate workers in industry on the advantages of greater mechanisation and thereby reduce opposition when improved methods of production are introduced.

Mr. Lee

This is a matter that concerns the two sides of industry and my right hon. Friend has been giving every support and encouragement to the establishment of joint consultative machinery through which such questions are discussed and the understanding and cooperation of the workpeople obtained.

Sir G. Harvie-Watt

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that recently there have been many cases in industries like the tobacco industry and at the docks where there have been some labour suspicions and fears regarding the introduction of mechanical aids to industry? This is a matter for both sides of industry, and will the Minister assure us that he will do more to get the two sides together by cooperation and education?

Mr. Lee

I accept the point which the hon. and learned Gentleman makes. We do everything in our power, but he must realise that mechanisation is going ahead at such a momentum that it is necessary to carry the people with us and not to impose this kind of thing; otherwise we shall have trouble in industry.