HC Deb 06 December 1965 vol 722 c20
41. Mr. Box

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will hold an inquiry into the recent trade dispute at Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering following the inability of four union members to produce their union cards on demand.

Mr. Gunter

This dispute occurred on 18th November and the stoppage of work lasted for one day. I do not think any useful purpose would be served in holding an inquiry.

Mr. Box

Is the Minister aware that as a result of four trade union members not being able to produce their cards, 120 men went on strike for the rest of that day? Does he not agree that at a time when Fairfields are fighting for their very existence and are in receipt of £1 million of the taxpayers' money, this is a shocking example of irresponsibility by a small group of workers? Will he warn them that any repetition of this sort of action will result in the withdrawal of Government financial support?

Mr. Gunter

I agree immediately with the hon. Member that this stoppage should never have occurred, and I am reinforced in the view by the Boilermakers' Union themselves. In the Question I am asked whether I would institute a court of inquiry. As the shop steward concerned has left his employment in this yard, I do not think that a court of inquiry is necessary.

Mr. Rankin

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the shop steward concerned in this incident left the employment of Fairfields immediately because of the fact that every shop steward in Fairfields condemned his action? Is he also aware that the incident lasted for half a day? Does not the supplementary question show that the only purpose of the Question is to create malice and to do harm to the jobs of 5,000 workpeople at Fairfields?