HC Deb 23 July 1953 vol 518 cc569-70
13. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has any further statement to make regarding the industrial dispute at the Medical Supply Association, Park Royal, N.W.10.

Sir W. Monckton

The observations of the firm on the complaint that they are not observing the fair wages clause have now been referred to me by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health in accordance with normal practice, and I am arranging for my officers to approach the parties again.

Mr. Robinson

Do I gather from that that there has been no progress in the settlement of this industrial dispute? Is the Minister aware that this firm is now advertising for non-union labour and that up to last week-end 22 non-union men had been engaged, some through the facilities of the Minister's Department? Will the Minister do what he can to try to prevent this firm behaving in this stupid and prehistoric manner?

Sir W. Monckton

I understand that in their observations to my right hon. Friend they have denied that they are breaking the fair wages clause. That is the very point where we can come in and see what the position is, and my regional industrial officer is now engaged on that task.