§ 45. Mr. Lewisasked the Prime Minister if, in view of the concern felt by the Trades Union Congress over the Government's recent announcement concerning the economic situation, he will arrange to meet the Trades Union Congress as early as possible to discuss the Government's proposals and to hear the views of the Trades Union Congress.
§ The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. R. A. Butler)I have been asked to reply.
It is—and has been—my right hon. Friend's intention to meet members of the General Council of the Trades Union Congress at some convenient moment soon.
§ Mr. LewisWhile thanking the Lord Privy Seal for that reply, may I ask him to convey to the Prime Minister the feeling that the T.U.C. General Council is very concerned? If he can arrange for the Prime Minister to see the General Council as speedily as possible, I am sure they will convey to him some home truths on behalf of the trade union movement of this country.
§ Mr. ButlerI do not doubt that my right hon. Friend is aware of the General Council's anxieties. He has already had an indication of them. I am equally certain that if there is to be an exchange there will be an exchange of realities. This may lead to the national good, and that is the desire of my right hon. Friend.