HC Deb 20 February 1967 vol 741 cc1140-1
42 and 43. Mr. Ridsdale

asked the Minister of Labour (1) if he will make a statement on the Report of the Pearson Committee on Seamen;

(2) when he expects to receive the Report of the Pearson Committee of Inquiry on Seamen.

Mr. Gunter

I have received the court of inquiry's final Report and I am arranging for it to be published early next month.

Mr. Ridsdale

Is the Minister going to await the publication of this Report before bringing social justice to the seamen on Trinity House whose back pay has not been back-dated like that of other seamen who came out on strike? May I have a straightforward answer to this, because the Prime Minister has twice refused to answer a question from me on this point?

Mr. Gunter

The Question asked if I will make a statement on the Report of the Pearson Committee. I cannot follow how that relates to seamen of Trinity House.

Mr. McNamara

Can my right hon. Friend indicate when we may expect legislation for the revision of the Merchant Shipping Acts arising out of the Report?

Mr. Gunter

Yes, indeed. The last part of the Report lays down what I hope will be the guidelines to the revision of the Merchant Shipping Acts.