HC Deb 08 July 1963 vol 680 cc840-2
10. Mr. Brockway

asked the Minister of Labour if the fair wages agreement, which requires recognition of trades unions, applies to firms contracting with nationalised industries and services in the same way as is the case with Government Departments.

Mr. Hare

The Fair Wages Resolution applies only to contracts placed by Government Departments. I understand that it is the general practice of the nationalised industries to include clauses based on the resolution in their contracts. The resolution requires Government contractors to recognise the freedom of their employees to be members of trade unions. It does not require them to recognise trade unions.

Mr. Brockway

If Government Departments require the liberty of trade union membership and recognition, should this not also apply to nationalised industries and public services? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have particularly in mind the firm of Securicor which has dismissed its trade union members at Slough, whose case I raised in this House on 18th December? As reported in columns 1078–9 of that date, the First Secretary of State gave my right hon. Friend the Member for Belper (Mr. G. Brown) and me assurances that trade union membership and recognition would be allowed. Is the Minister aware that these men are still victimised? Will he do something about it?

Mr. Hare

I remember well the case the hon. Member has referred to, but I think he also knows that the company has given a categorical assurance that it has not dismissed employees for the reason that they are trade union members

Mr. Brockway

It dismissed them all.

Mr. Hare

I have received categorical assurances that this is not so. This is the difference between the hon. Member and myself. As to compelling a particular company to negotiate with trade unions, that is not laid down in the Fair Wages Resolution.

Mr. Gunter

As there appears to be a conflict of opinion and evidence between my hon. Friend the Member for Eton and Slough (Mr. Brockway) and the Minister on this important and serious matter, will the Minister give an assurance that he will take immediate steps to look into it?

Mr. Hare

I can assure the hon. Member that I have looked very carefully into this. I looked very carefully into it when I answered Questions about it some time ago, and I naturally checked on what I have said here today. I have been fully informed on it and made the statement on that basis.

Mr. Brockway

In view of the unsatisfactory reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment at the first opportunity.