HC Deb 18 March 1952 vol 497 cc2076-7
5. Commander Harry Pursey

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the recent report by Aims of Industry Limited, a copy of which has been sent him, on the working of the National Dock Labour Board Scheme in Hull; and, in view of the dissatisfaction caused by the report to the Hull dock workers, whether he will initiate discussions with representatives of the trades unions and employers organisations concerned to restore the smooth working of the port.

Sir W. Monckton

Yes, Sir. I have seen a summary of this report as issued to the Press and would like to take this opportunity of dispelling any doubts that may have been occasioned as to the conditions at Hull. The port has been singularly free from industrial troubles in recent years, and both employers and workers are to be congratulated on the good relations which exist.

Commander Pursey

I thank the Minister for that reply, but may I ask him whether he can confirm that no responsible person from either side of the shipping industry in Hull was interviewed by Aims of Industry Limited, and that their report is not worth the paper it is written on?

Sir W. Monckton

I am afraid I do not know the answer to that question.

Mr. Mellish

But the right hon. and learned Gentleman will be aware of the fact that, consequent upon this report, a so-called port efficiency committee has been established and that there is great resentment arising from the fact that this so-called port efficiency committee was established consequent upon a report which in many respects is not founded on fact at all.

Sir W. Monckton

I have no reason to suppose that the port efficiency committee has been appointed because of the report to which the Question relates.