HC Deb 19 April 1956 vol 551 cc1161-2
25. Mr. Ede

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why the legislation promised in Command Paper No. 8286, July, 1951, as a necessary preliminary to the ratification of the International Labour Organisation Convention No. 96, has not been introduced by Her Majesty's Government; and if he will make a statement on the Government's intentions on this subject.

Mr. Deedes

It is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to introduce the necessary legislation to secure the ratification of the International Labour Organisation Convention No. 96, but my right hon. and gallant Friend is not in a position to say when it will be introduced. Consultations with the local authorities' associations are proceeding.

Mr. Ede

As it is now five years since the original promise was made, might one express the hope that legislation will shortly be introduced, during the next Session at the latest?

Mr. Deedes

Obviously, I cannot say when it will be. A great deal of other consultation is necessary, including consultation with the Trades Union Congress. It really is not possible to say when legislation will result.