§ 11. Mr. Prenticeasked the Minister of Labour whether the United Kingdom delegates to the Governing Body of the International Labour Organisation supported its recent decision to undertake a continuing factual survey into conditions relating to freedom of association; and whether steps are being taken to submit reports for this purpose relating to territories under United Kingdom administration.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThe United Kingdom Government representative supported the principle of such a survey but abstained from voting on the particular proposals put forward, which had some unsatisfactory features, especially as to the procedure to be followed. As regards the second part of the Question, it is understood that the survey will be carried out in stages over a period of time, and no reports have yet been requested from the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. PrenticeCan the Minister give us some more information on the parts of the resolution which were regarded as 354 unsatisfactory? Can he assure the House that Her Majesty's Government will cooperate fully in giving what reports are required for the survey and, if necessary, allowing I.L.O. representatives to visit territories under United Kingdom administration?
§ Mr. MacleodThere were some matters regarding procedure with reference to the question of travelling missions and the scope of the suggested survey that we have found unsatisfactory, and we have made certain comments and reservations about them. Subject to that, of course, we will co-operate with the survey, bearing in mind the point of view our representative took.