HC Deb 17 July 1962 vol 663 c214
24. Mr. N. Pannell

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what decision has been reached on the future of the Aden Industrial Relations Ordinance.

Mr. Sandys

In a statement on 8th July, the Aden Government announced that they wish to review this Ordinance and propose to consult both sides of industry about it. I will, with permission, circulate a copy of this statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement: It is nearly two years since the Industrial Relations (Conciliation and Arbitration) Ordinance came into force. The main purpose of the Ordinance was to introduce stability in industrial relations and to protect the economy from the damaging effects of frequent strikes. As a result of the Ordinance Aden has enjoyed a high standard of industrial peace. Improvements to wages and conditions of service have resulted from collective bargaining and a firm foundation has been provided for economic stability and progress. During the period the Ordinance has been in force employers and unions have successfully negotiated a number of procedural agreements providing for collective bargaining, conciliation and arbitration. This very success has made it possible for Government to consider whether certain restrictive provisions in the Ordinance can be relaxed. Government, in a letter to the Aden Trades Union Congress dated 5th May, 1962, indicated its willingness to consider the possibility of suspending the Ordinance whenever local circumstances allowed of such action. It is too early yet to judge whether such circumstances exist but Government wishes to press ahead with a review of the Ordinance after obtaining the advice of both sides of industry jointly. This can only be done effectively through the machinery provided by the Aden Joint Consultative Council, a body which Government has been endeavouring to establish for some considerable time. Feeling that the present circumstances are favourable, I will upon my return to Aden invite the Aden Trades Union Congress and certain employers and employers' organisations to nominate representatives to serve on the Aden Joint Consultative Council which will advise Government on labour policies, labour legislation and methods of improving industrial relations. One of its first tasks will be to provide Government with the advice necessary to carry out the proposed review of the provisions of the Ordinance referred to earlier in this statement.