HC Deb 23 February 1951 vol 484 cc1715-6

4.34 p.m.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Aneurin Bevan)

With your permission Mr. Deputy-Speaker, and the permission of the House, I should like to make a statement. The House, before it adjourns today, will, I am sure, wish to know the present position in the discussions between the Railway Executive and the three railway unions. I am informed that as a result of the resumed meeting this morning, very considerable progress has been made and I am hopeful of an early settlement.

Mr. McCorqnodale (Epsom)

The House will be grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for coming here and giving us the latest information. The House and the public will be relieved to hear what he has said, so far as it goes, and we will all trust that wise counsels will prevail all round.

Mr. Collick (Birkenhead)

May I ask whether my right hon. Friend proposes to make a further statement to the House on Monday?

Mr. Bevan

I am hoping that events will overtake the necessity of making a further statement.

Mrs. Jean Mann (Coatbridge and Airdrie)

May I ask whether it is quite safe for hon. Members to travel home; will they get back again?

Mr. Bevan

I have substantial reasons for believing that there will be no interference with the convenience of hon. Members.

Adjourned accordingly at Twenty-Five Minutes to Five o'Clock.