HC Deb 09 May 1956 vol 552 cc1201-2
33. Mr. Langford-Holt

asked the Secretary of State for Air if, in view of discontent among the employees at No.27 Maintenance Unit, he will meet a deputation of these employees to discuss restrictions upon their prospects of advancement which have resulted from the agreement made at the beginning of the war between his Department and the Amalgamated Engineering Union.

Mr. Birch

I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by my receiving such a deputation.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Will my right hon. Friend consider consulting the Minister of Labour to see whether a solution to this long-drawn-out problem cannot be found? Is he aware that this is a diminishing problem?

Mr. Birch

I will certainly consult my right hon. Friend, but on the whole I think that it is best to work through the existing machinery.

Mr. Hobson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a specific and categorical agreement between the Amalgamated Engineering Union and his Department about this question? Does he now propose to take unilateral action which will reopen the whole of this controversial business?

Mr. Birch

There is no question of not working through the recognised machinery.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Is my right hon. Friend aware that that agreement is nearly 20 years old and that there is, after all, much scope for mutual consultation with the union as well as his Department, and will he not take the necessary steps?