§ 30. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Labour why he has refused to meet a deputation from the National Union of Bank Employees, led by the hon. Member for Accrington, to discuss the refusal of the Banque Belge pour l'Etranger to recognise the union.
§ Mr. IsaacsAs I explained to my hon. Friend, this matter has been the subject of discussions between my Department, and representatives of the bank and the union. I regret that it has not been possible to secure any arrangement mutually satisfactory to the parties, but I do not think that this is a matter in which I can usefully intervene.
§ Mr. HyndIs my right hon. Friend aware that it is precisely because this matter has been the subject of unsuccessful talks between his divisional officer and the union that I am troubling him personally with it? Will he not use his influence with this bank to persuade them that when an organisation represents the majority of the staff, it is entitled to recognition?
§ Mr. IsaacsI do not question the facts at all. Our regional officer has met both parties on several occasions and he is endeavouring to secure a conference between them. At the moment it is the bank which has declined the meeting. I will see whether I can use any influence I have.
§ Mr. Arthur LewisWill my right hon. Friend consider amending the National Arbitration Order so as to include questions of trade union recognition in matters which can be sent to the tribunal for settlement?
§ Mr. IsaacsThat is quite another question, and I would like to consider it before I express an opinion.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIn view of the acceptance by the right hon. Gentleman of the principle put forward by his hon. Friend behind him, will he now invite the Postmaster-General to pay attention to that principle?