HC Deb 05 June 1951 vol 488 cc785-6
4 and 13. Mr. J. R. Bevins

asked the Minister of Labour (1) if he has now considered the Report of the Committee of Inquiry into unofficial stoppages in the London docks; and if he will make a statement;

(2) if his attention has been drawn to the observations of the Committee of Inquiry into Unofficial Stoppages at the London docks with regard to the motives of certain unofficial leaders; and if he will introduce legislation to prevent the abuses revealed by the Inquiry.

7. Mr. Nigel Fisher

asked the Minister of Labour what action the Government propose to take arising out of the Dock Labour Report prepared by Sir Frederick Leggett's Committee.

8. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Minister of Labour what action he proposes to take on the recommendation of the Committee of Inquiry on unofficial stoppages at the London docks, Command Paper 8236; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Robens

The first step is to consult the various bodies concerned. Their views have been requested and discussions arranged. I shall complete these consultations as rapidly as possible to enable decisions to be taken.

Mr. Bevins

May I put two questions to the right hon. Gentleman? First of all, do I take it that His Majesty's Government have accepted the findings of the Leggett Committee? Secondly, is it intended that any action the Minister may take shall apply to Merseyside and other ports, as well as to London?

Mr. Robens

There will obviously be matters arising from the Leggett Report which will affect other ports besides the London docks. There are many things in the Report which need very careful discussion with the bodies concerned, and those discussions are now taking place.

Sir W. Smithers

Has it not become increasingly obvious that the T.U.C., being the paymasters of the Government, are having undue influence on policy? Will the Government either govern or get out? Answer that one!

Mr. Sydney Silverman

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that, whatever may be the truth as to London, there is a great deal in the Report of this Committee which certainly does not apply to many dock areas outside London, and will he not see that if he intends to do anything affecting those other areas it is necessary to have a committee to inquire into the conditions at the other ports?

Mr. Robens

What my hon. Friend has said indicates the necessity for very careful consideration of this Report and for adequate discussions with all sides of the industry concerned.