HC Deb 19 December 1963 vol 686 cc1451-2
Mr. Hooson

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Labour if he will intervene and offer his good services to try to resolve the industrial dispute at the Steel Company of Wales plant at Port Talbot.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. J. B. Godber)

I am, naturally, concerned that this situation should have developed. The agreed negotiating arrangements provide that, in the event of disagreement, questions may be referred to arbitration with the consent of both sides. My officers are exploring this possibility.

Mr. Hooson

In view of the fact that closure of this great plant is now imminent and that if there is closure it will inevitably mean closure of complete plants in other parts of the country and that, therefore, the livelihood of tens of thousands of families is threatened, would the Minister not agree that he should intervene at this stage rather than allow the situation to deteriorate, as it seems to be doing at present?

Mr. Godber

I have said that I am concerned about the situation. I do not think that it would help if I were to comment at length on it in the House at the present time.

Mr. J. Morris

Although it is sometimes forgotten that when hon. Members intervene in matters affecting another hon. Member's constituency it is both traditional and good manners that every practical step is taken to inform the hon. Member concerned, may I take this opportunity of thanking the Minister for his reply in the somewhat early stages and saying that the Minister's good offices have been appreciated in the past? Will he please give an assurance that he will keep the matter—as undoubtedly he will—under close supervision and that if it became necessary or useful to see me during the Recess he would do so?

Mr. Godber

I am grateful to the hon. Member. As he knows, I am concerned and we have spoken about this matter. I shall gladly keep in touch with him about it.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The right hon. Gentleman knows that many of us could be affected if these works closed and that we are concerned. Is he aware that the Mayor of Port Talbot has offered his good offices in an effort to bring the parties together? Can he say whether his officers in Cardiff will be available if the mayor's initiative looks like meeting with some success?

Mr. Godber

I am grateful to the right hon. Member.

Mr. Hooson

Is the Minister aware that this is more than a constituency matter, that it is a national matter? Is he also aware that I did inform the hon. Member for Aberavon (Mr. J. Morris), before the meeting of the House this afternoon, that I intended to raise the matter?

Mr. Godber

I have no further comment to make.