HC Deb 26 January 1953 vol 510 cc666-7
48. Mr. Lewis

asked the Minister of Supply if he will make a statement on his recent discussions with representatives of the trade unions on the question of the denationalisation of the iron and steel industry.

Mr. Sandys

Yes, Sir. 1 had meetings with representatives of the Trades Union Congress on 2nd January and 15th January to discuss the provisions of the Iron and Steel Bill. I will, with permission, circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT the text of the agreed statement which was issued.

Mr. Lewis

Can the Minister say whether the T.U.C. are generally in favour of the plans of the Government or against them?

Mr. Sandys

I would not like to add to the agreed statement.

Following is the statement:

Meeting of 2nd January. Agreed statement issued on 2nd January, 1953. The Minister of Supply today met representatives of the General Council of the T.U.C. and of the principal trade unions in the iron and steel industry. The purpose of the meeting, which was held at the invitation of the Minister, was to discuss the provisions of the Iron and Steel Bill. Whilst it was made clear that the T.U.C. maintained its opposition to the Government's policy of denationalisation, a useful exchange of views took place on various aspects of the Bill, and the Minister undertook to consider certain detailed amendments suggested to him by the delegation.

After the second meeting a statement was issued to the effect that the earlier discussions had been continued.