HC Deb 30 March 1955 vol 539 cc376-7
58. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if the negotiations, commenced two years ago, on the setting up of a consultative or negotiating committee for the rubber industry in Malaya have yet been completed; and if he will ensure that this committee will deal on a national scale with the wages and conditions in this industry.

Mr. Hopkinson

I am glad to say that the long and patient negotiations between the two sides of the planting industries in the Federation of Malaya have now resulted in agreement on the constitution of a Joint Consultative Committee for these industries. The agreement, which provides for joint consultation on wages, conditions of work and other matters, was signed on the 26th March.

Mr. Awbery

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that such a long delay in setting up this industrial organisation creates a feeling of frustration among the workmen? Will the right hon. Gentleman's Labour Department in Malaya use its good offices to expedite negotiations when they take place, and will he take steps also to extend the formation of such an organisation to other industries in Malaya?

Mr. Hopkinson

I have just said that the negotiations have been successfully concluded, and I think both sides are to be congratulated on the results. The setting up of the Committee has certainly taken a long time because on neither side of industry was there any effective organisation until quite recently.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that, although we are pleased at the setting up of this body, we are dissatisfied at the long delay?