§ 29. Mr. Godberasked the Minister of Labour whether he will take steps to discuss with the motor manufacturers and unions concerned the breakdown in arrangements to co-ordinate holiday dates throughout the motor industry, with a view to preventing the repetition in another year of such a break in production as has recently occurred in some factories in the Coventry area.
§ Mr. GunterI am informed that the ballot to determine the holiday period to be taken by employees in the motor industry next year has already taken place, and that on this occasion employees in Coventry firms have taken part. The industry is confident that the difficulties which have occurred this year will not be repeated in 1966.
§ Mr. GodberWhile we are glad to learn this, do I understand from the Minister's reply that on the previous occasion the Coventry employers were not even consulted? It seems to have been an extraordinary situation if that was so. Can the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that all those concerned will be fully aware on this occasion so that there is no misunderstanding, which probably was the cause of the trouble before?
§ Mr. GunterYes, indeed; I understand that steps will be taken in that direction. In reply to the first part of the question, the position seems to be a little confused. I formed the impression that the employers were consulted but that they abstained.