§ 3. Mr. Lionel Healdasked the Minister of Labour, in view of the proposed investigation of various complaints of alleged restrictive practices by trade and employers' organisations set out in the report (H.C. 21) under the Monopolies and Restrictive Practices (Inquiry and 539 Control) Act, 1948, what steps he proposes to take to provide machinery for similar independent investigation of alleged restrictive practices of trade unions.
§ Mr. IsaacsThe question of restrictive practices in industry is still under consideration by the National Joint Advisory Council.
§ Mr. HealdIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on 22nd April, 1948, the Lord President of the Council, on the Second Reading of the Monopolies and Restrictive Practices (Inquiry and Control) Bill, undertook that this matter should be inquired into? Is he further aware that he himself, on 13th December, told the House there would be a report on this matter early in the new year; and does not he think that it is getting late in the new year?
§ Mr. IsaacsBoth of those undertakings were carried out, but we considered that the employers' and workers' sides of industry were the best people to inquire into all the allegation. They have made their inquiries, and I understand that they are now able to present their report to the Council.