HC Deb 27 February 1952 vol 496 cc1136-7
26. Mr. Hobson

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General what progress has been made by the British Broadcasting Corporation, in consultation with the Trades Union Congress, for recognition by the British Broadcasting Corporation of affiliated trade unions.

Mr. Gammans

This is primarily a matter for the B.B.C. The Corporation have informed my noble Friend that, after expressing readiness to accept the Broadcasting Committee's recommendation No. 93 as a whole, they have had several meetings with representatives of the Trades Union Congress and the unions concerned with the object of reaching a working arrangement on that basis. Negotiations are still going on.

Mr. Hobson

Does the hon. Gentleman's reply mean that the British Broadcasting Corporation are now prepared to recognise trade unions affiliated to the Trades Union Congress?

Mr. Gammans

I suggest that the hon. Member waits until the negotiations are finished.

Mr. Hobson

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the negotiations have been going on for two years? Is he also aware that as a result of the Terrington Committee Report he will be further strengthened in giving the B.B.C. instructions to recognise trade unions?

Mr. Gammans

It is not a part of my duty, any more than it was a part of the hon. Member's duty when he was Assistant Postmaster-General, to give the B.B.C. instructions in a matter of this sort.

Mr. Ness Edwards

As the B.B.C. Charter is being discussed, as the observations of the B.B.C. have been obtained upon the terms and conditions of the Charter, and as the B.B.C. itself undertook to carry out that recommendation last June, surely we could have a little more speed?

Mr. Gammans

There is no evidence that the B.B.C. is not prepared to accept the recommendation. I do not think the right hon. Gentleman could have heard what I said. I told the House that the negotiations are still proceeding.

Mr. Shinwell

As every responsible authority in the country, local and national, and big industrial corporations, recognise trade unions, would it not be wise on the part of the Government to see that the B.B.C. also does so?

Mr. Gammans

The B.B.C. has already said that it is prepared to accept recommendation No. 93 of the Broadcasting Commission Report as a whole.

Mr. Hobson

Why has it not already done so?