HC Deb 27 October 1953 vol 518 cc2617-8
Mr. Isaacs

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour whether he has a further statement to make about the strike of oil distribution workers.

Sir W. Monckton

Yes, Sir. As the House will be aware, the strikers decided yesterday to go back to work this morning. I understand that a meeting between the oil companies and the union has been arranged for tomorrow. Troops have been withdrawn, and the resumption of work has taken place this morning. It is satisfactory that good sense has ultimately prevailed. I hope that this stoppage will make it even clearer than before that where negotiating machinery is available in an industry, resort should be had to it and the public should be spared unnecessary hardship and inconvenience.

Mr. Isaacs

May I assure the right hon. and learned Gentleman that all of us on this side of the House ate very pleased to see the result of his efforts in this matter? Especially do we wish to associate ourselves with the reference in the last part of his reply about making use of the negotiating machinery. All of us who have the trade union interest at heart know that if we are to make our trade unions effective we must obey them, and to that end we hope that this is a lesson which will now be taken to heart.

Sir H. Williams

Would my right hon. and learned Friend request the Service Ministers to convey to the cheerful young men who did such a good job the grateful appreciation of the nation?

Sir W. Monckton

I am quite sure that in the ordinary way those who are responsible for the Services will see that the gratitude of the public is conveyed to their units.

Mr. Awbery

Now that the unfortunate dispute has come to an end, will the Minister take steps to see that the reactionary forces do not now come into operation by the victimisation of any men by dismissal?

Sir W. Monckton

I was happy to make the announcement this afternoon that peace had been restored, and I am not going to say anything to disturb it.