HC Deb 29 May 1951 vol 488 cc37-8
Major Sir David Maxwell Fyfe

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour whether he has any statement to make on the strike taking place in the nationalised road transport industry?

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Robens)

Out of a total of some 41,000 drivers, 11,635 were not at work this morning. This stoppage has arisen over a decision by the Road Haulage Executive to extend the system of road patrols of which a limited number are at present employed. This decision was taken only after long and careful consideration and after full consultation with the Staff Council. I understand there is some apprehension amongst the men that these patrols will be used to spy on them, but the Road Haulage Executive inform me that the men will be in uniform and will travel in distinctive vans. The arrangements can have no immediate application as no appointments have yet been made.

In all the circumstances I have today-invited representatives of the Executive and of the trade union to meet me to discuss the matter.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

Can the right hon. Gentleman help us on two points? First, what is the position, particularly in the London area, with regard to milk, perishable goods and hospital supplies? Secondly—a different point, but one which he will notice has been the subject of much comment—has he any information whether the drivers on strike were consulted before the agreement was made on this point?

Mr. Robens

As to the first question, there is at the moment no danger to those essential supplies, but we are watching that position very closely indeed. As to the second question, I would rather wait until I have met the representatives of the trade union and of the Executive.

Mr. Peter Thorneycroft

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the efforts which the Minister of Transport is stated to be making to enable the private road haulage industry to keep the essential traffics running by lifting the 25-mile ban? Can he say to what extent this ban has been lifted in the emergency and how successful that operation has been?

Mr. Robens

That is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport. All I am concerning myself with is this strike, and I am anxious to see that the strike is settled satisfactorily and quickly. I think it would be better if the House would agree to allow me at this stage to carry out the decision I have made to have these meetings, rather than pursue the matter further now.

Mr. Churchill

Cannot the Minister of Transport give the desired information? [HON. MEMBERS: "Answer."] May I repeat my inquiry? I address it to the Prime Minister. Can the Minister of Transport give the desired information?

The Prime Minister

No doubt he could if the right hon. Gentleman had given notice that he would put the question. It is quite unusual for anyone in this House to get up at any time and ask questions of any Minister without giving any notice whatever.

Mr. Churchill

It surely would not have been unprecedented at all for a Minister to supplement the information given by the Minister giving the answer with that special part of the essential information which was known only to that other Minister. If he does not know, why does he not?