HC Deb 03 March 1959 vol 601 cc199-200
33. Mr. Benn

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what representations he has received from the Aden Trades Union Congress, the International Confederation of Free Trades Unions, and the British Trades Union Congress about the industrial situation in Aden; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I received in Aden a letter from the Aden Trades Union Congress dated 14th February which included representations on a number of matters related to the industrial situation in Aden. These are being carefully studied. No formal representations have been received from the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions on this subject, but before I went to Aden I had a talk with a delegation from the British T.U.C. about industrial relations in the territory.

Mr. Benn

Since the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions has expressed concern at the industrial situation in Aden, will the right hon. Gentleman agree to meet it to discuss the situation?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

If it makes a request to me I will certainly consider it.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

While fully recognising the interest of the British Trades Union Congress in industrial matters in Aden, may I ask my right hon. Friend to resist any attempt by the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions to interfere in the internal affairs of British territories?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I think that it is to the British Trades Union Congress that the unions in Aden should most wisely look for guidance in their difficulties.

34. Mr. Benn

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what consultations have taken place in Aden between the Government and the trade unions for establishing better machinery for industrial relations.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

There have been no formal consultations recently, but the Aden Government have had regular informal discussions with representatives of the Aden T.U.C., the unions and employers with the object of improving the negotiating machinery. I understand that the Aden T.U.C. is now ready to consider co-operating in setting up a joint industrial council for the port.

Mr. Benn

Is the right hon. Gentleman willing to sponsor the plea of the Aden T.U.C. that there should be consultation in all the main industries in the port before redundancies and dismissals take place?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I gave the Aden T.U.C. an opportunity of meeting me when I was there last week. I am sorry to say that it did not take it.

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