HC Deb 17 October 1950 vol 478 cc1876-7
48. Sir John Mellor

asked the Prime Minister to which Minister questions should be addressed concerning proceedings under the Conditions of Employment and National Arbitration Order.

The Prime Minister

So far as the general administration of the Conditions of Employment and National Arbitration Order is concerned, the responsibility lies with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service. Questions relating to prosecutions for alleged offences should be addressed to my right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General.

Sir J. Mellor

Is the Prime Minister aware that on 19th September, the Minister of Labour stated in this House: I have not thought it appropriate to institute proceedings in the courts in respect of any of these stoppages."—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 19th September, 1950; Vol. 478, c. 1691.]? Surely that should have been dealt with by the Attorney-General; and will the Prime Minister comment upon it?

The Prime Minister

I will consider the point that the hon. Gentleman has made. It has not been brought to my notice before.

Mr. S. Silverman

When my right hon. Friend is considering it, will he look at one of the answers given by the Minister of Labour today, and, if he thinks it necessary, will he take steps to make it perfectly clear that prosecutions under this Order are in no way the responsibility of the Government, and the Government do not interfere with them?