HC Deb 07 December 1964 vol 703 cc1045-6
13. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Labour what form the inquiry into trades unions and their place in law and national affairs will take.

23. Mr. Godber

asked the Minister of Labour if he will make a statement on his discussions with both sides of industry about an inquiry into the law affecting trade unions and employers' organisations and their rôle in modern conditions.

Mr. Gunter

I am glad to say that following the Government's decision to introduce legislation this Session to deal with the unsatisfactory situation created by the judgment in Rookes v. Barnard there can now be an inquiry into trade unions and employers' associations in a satisfactory atmosphere and with the full co-operation of the Trades Union Congress. I think we need an inquiry into the rôle of both trade unions and employers' associations in our modern society. I am at present consulting the Trades Union Congress and the British Employers' Confederation.

Mr. Digby

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many people will welcome that news? Can he give us any more idea of the form of the inquiry he has in mind and of the kind of evidence it will take?

Mr. Gunter

I can only say at this point that I am in consultation with the T.U.C. and the British Employers' Confederation, but, as the hon. Member knows, I would wish for a very high level and searching inquiry.

Mr. Godber

While welcoming the extremely important announcement which the right hon. Gentleman has made, may I ask whether he can give any indication of how soon he will be able to give us the terms of reference of this body as well as information about the type of body and how soon it will start sitting? The right hon. Gentleman in his reply referred also to legislation on the Rookes v. Barnard issue. Will the inquiry start sitting before we have that legislation?

Mr. Gunter

While I am not in charge of the time-table in this House, it is hoped that legislation dealing with the Rookes v. Barnard case will be introduced shortly after Christmas. I hope, in the comparatively near future, to be able to tell the House the terms of reference of the inquiry.

Mr. Ridsdale

Will the right hon. Gentleman be putting a time-table on the inquiry?

Mr. Gunter

I have not thought of that. I do not know whether or not such authority rests with me.