Merchant Shipping Act, 1894

HC Deb 09 November 1960 vol 629 cc1030-1

29. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Minister of Transport what proposals he has to amend the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894; and when he intends to introduce the necessary legislation.

Mr. Marples

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on 26th October to a similar Question by the hon. Member for Bristol, Central (Mr. Awbery).

Mr. Allaun

Is the Minister aware that it is eleven years since the union first sought an amendment to the Act and that what is particularly incensing the seamen in Salford and other ports is that they are denied the basic freedom long since won by other workers and are treated as criminals if they go on strike even when in dock?

Mr. Marples

The National Maritime Board on which both sides of the industry, including the seamen, are represented, is considering this matter, and it assures me that there will be no delay in presenting its conclusions to me. I think that it is very much better that both sides of industry should settle this so that legislation would be acceptable all round. I must say that a seaman can withdraw his labour at the end of his engagement, or if it is in the terms of his articles.

Mrs. Braddock

Will the Minister bear in mind that for the past two years very keen negotiations and discussions have been going on by the National Union of Seamen about this matter, and does he think it would be wise, in view of the unsatisfactory state of the industry, to make an interim report about suggestions which are being made in order that there can be further discussions before legislation takes place?

Mr. Marples

I would confirm that a great deal of consultation has been going on, and I am hopeful that the National Maritime Board will present its conclusions quickly. The quicker the better. I can assure the House that I shall not waste any time in considering them.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894, is quite inadequate to deal with the problems of 1960, and will he make urgent representations to the Board to report on this matter so that something can be done? Does he know that quite recently a dispute took place in the mercantile marine because of the difficulties of this Act. Therefore, will he remove the difficulties so that the men can work more in harmony with the employers than they can do at the moment?

Mr. Marples

I hope that the National Maritime Board will see the Questions and Answers today.