HC Deb 18 March 1963 vol 674 cc23-4
34. Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour what policy was adopted by Her Majesty's Government's representative at the International Labour Organisation in the recent discussions on the attitude of British banks towards trade unionism among their employees; what steps he is taking to comply with the International Labour Organisation request that be should set up an inquiry; and if he will make a statement.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. William White-law)

At its session on 8th March, the Governing Body of the International Labour Office accepted a recommendation from its Freedom of Association Committee that the United Kingdom Government be invited to set up an inquiry. There was no discussion, but our representative said that the Govern- ment would give careful consideration to the request. The request has not yet been received.

Mr. Prentice

Is the Minister aware that we on this side have for many years been urging the Minister and his predecessors to use their influence with the banks to afford normal facilities to the National Union of Bank Employees? Does he not think it a somewhat embarrassing situation when a British trade union has to take its problems to the I.L.O. to try to get the answer it cannot get in this country? Will the hon. Gentleman make it absolutely clear that when this request is received, in the formal sense, the Minister will, in fact, set up an inquiry quickly? When does he expect to be able to announce to the House the terms of reference, the number of members, and details like that?

Mr. Whitelaw

The possibility of an inquiry is being actively considered. Until that decision has been taken, I cannot say more in answer to the hon. Gentleman's other requests. I could not agree that it is in any way embarrassing that this request should have come from the International Labour Organisation. As the hon. Gentleman knows, this is a very complicated matter and the I.L.O. considered that some sort of inquiry was necessary. The I.L.O. could have set up an inquiry itself but, instead, has given us the opportunity of doing so.