§ 30. Sir F. Medlicottasked the Minister of Labour if he will make a statement concerning the dispute which was reported to him, and which has lasted for 11 weeks, between the Amalgamated Society of Woodworkers and the Plumbing Trades Union, as to who shall put the windows in a block of offices in Leeds.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodI was aware of the dispute, although it was not formally reported to me. It was dealt with by the disputes machinery of the building industry, and I understand that a settlement was reached which resulted in a resumption of the disputed work on 19th March.
§ Sir F. MedlicottIs my right hon. Friend aware that while the unions concerned carry on these private wars the customers who are paying for their products are losing money? Will the Government screw up their courage and bring in legislation which will give the aggrieved persons some right of action against strikers who prolong strikes unnecessarily and unjustifiably?
§ Mr. MacleodThe answer to the question about legislation is, No, Sir. These demarcation disputes are, and for a long time have been, difficult and contentious matters, but it is worth remembering, as the Report of the Committee of Inquiry into another matter published this morning makes clear, that 99 out of 100 of these disputes are settled at once and on the spot through the ordinary machinery. I wish it were 100 out of 100.