HC Deb 16 May 1966 vol 728 cc894-5
10. Mr. Hornby

asked the Minister of Labour following his investigation into the Cowley trial, if he is aware of its effect on the people principally involved, including the resignation of one; what action he has taken; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gunter

I have seen reports about this and I sympathise deeply with any workers adversely affected. As the House knows, I immediately asked the trade unions concerned to make urgent inquiries. They reported to me that while the incident had been exaggerated, they were issuing circulars emphasising to their members the importance of observing union rules.

Mr. Hornby

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chairman of the Oxford Branch of the T.G.W.U. is reported as saying that it would be a great pity if the whole incident were brought up again? Will the right hon. Gentleman dissociate himself from that statement and make it clear to the House and to the country as a whole that the sort of intimidation which apparently occurred in this case is very much a matter of public concern, and will he tell the House what action he has taken in this case to try to get a better standard of conduct in matters of this sort?

Mr. Gunter

The hon. Gentleman knows that this was immediately brought to the attention of the trade unions, who were called to the Ministry of Labour. They in turn issued instructions and regretted what they still maintain were certain exaggerated elements. The hon. Gentleman also knows that the papers were sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions, and that the Attorney-General said in the House that a prosecution would not take place.

Mr. Ridley

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that there should be some sort of appeal court to which cases of this sort can appeal so that the public can be certain that where a judgment is being given it is being given by completely outside, unbiased persons?

Mr. Gunter

The nub of the question is one that we have discussed before in this House, namely, union rules and whether they should be scrutinised by another body. This is one reason why I attach great importance to the mass of evidence which is being submitted to the Royal Commission on this issue. I would rather leave it there, and when we have the guidelines from the Royal Commission we shall do what is right.