HC Deb 30 November 1960 vol 631 cc366-7
7. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Labour if, in order to foster and improve good relations in industry and to make effective use of untapped resources of organising ability, he will introduce legislation to ensure that employers give to their employees representation on their boards of management and other similar positions of responsibility.

Mr. Hare

No, Sir. I am not able to accept the hon. Gentleman's suggestion.

Mr. Awbery

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, if we want peace and harmony in industry, the men who invest their lives in it must have a greater share in the responsibilities of running industry? No longer will they be satisfied to be hewers of wood and drawers of water. Is he aware that they want not only a consultative position but a responsible position, and that it is only then that we shall have industrial peace and harmony?

Mr. Hare

I think that the hon. Member would agree that this is really a question for individual firms. I do not think that legislation on these lines would be any use at all. As for consultative machinery, I am sure that more should be done, and anything that I can do to promote increased and batter methods of consultation I shall do.

Mr. Awbery

If the right hon. Gentleman would only express an opinion on that, it would be all right.