HC Deb 14 July 1955 vol 543 cc2081-2
2. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the 40 years worsening relative position of craftsmen and other skilled men in the engineering industry; and whether he will appoint a committee to investigate and report.

The Minister of Labour and National Service (Sir Walter Monckton)

There have naturally been changes in relative wage rates in engineering and many other industries during the past forty years, but I see no need for the investigation suggested by the hon. Member.

3. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour, in view of current unrest in the engineering industry, what action was taken by his predecessor on the Report on the Relations in the Engineering Industry, Command Paper No. 7511, of 1948.

Sir W. Monckton

In accordance with normal practice, the Report was referred to the parties for their consideration.

4. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour if it is now intended to take any action with a view to modernising the joint consultative and negotiating machinery in the engineering and shipbuilding industry following on the Report of the Court of Inquiry in 1948, Command Paper No. 7511.

Sir W. Monckton

The modernisation of joint machinery in these two industries, which was not specifically dealt with in the Court's recommendations, is a matter for the two sides of the industries concerned. The services of my Department are always available to advise and assist the parties if they so desire.