§ 5. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the constitution of the Labour Advisory Board of Malaya; how it is elected; how many times it has met; when the last meeting took place; and who is the independent chairman.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe Malayan Labour Advisory Board, as appointed annually from 1947 to 1950, consisted of four Government representatives and four representatives each of employers and workers, appointed by the High Commissioner after consultation with the employers' and workers' organisations. The Commissioner of Labour, one of the Government representatives, was Chairman. There have been 19 meetings since 1947, the last in October, 1950. The composition of the Board is now under review, and it is hoped to announce its reconstitution shortly.
§ Mr. AwberyIn view of the fact that the last meeting took place in February of this year, does the Secretary of State not think that the Board is ineffective when it meets so infrequently; and would he also consider appointing an independent Chairman other than the Commissioner of Labour, to create greater confidence among the workers in Singapore?
§ Mr. GriffithsThe constitution of the Board is now under consideration by the Government, and I note the suggestion of my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. AwberyWhen it has been considered, will my right hon. Friend also consider giving the trade unions the opportunity of electing direct representatives to the Board?
§ Mr. GriffithsAll that can be considered, and I am sure it will be by the Government.