HC Deb 15 October 1968 vol 770 cc201-3
Q15. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the recent Trade Union Congress decided by a large majority in opposition to some aspects of the prices and incomes policy; and whether, in view of this, he will amend the scheme.

The Prime Minister

We do not propose to amend the current legislation, which expires at the end of 1969, since it has an essential rôle in our economic strategy. My right hon. Friend the First Secretary of State has invited the trade unions through the T.U.C. to a joint study of the future of prices and incomes policy after the present powers expire.

Mr. Shinwell

Although I fully appreciate that it is the business of the Government to govern—that is their primary and sole responsibility—nevertheless, in view of the very strong representations that have recently been made about certain aspects of the prices and incomes policy, would it not be advisable for the Government to be a little more flexible on the penal clauses of the prices and incomes policy which have caused offence to the majority of trade unionists?

The Prime Minister

After more than two years, I do not think that these penal laws have been invoked in the sense that my right hon. Friend has in mind. My right hon. Friend will know that it is our hope and belief that it should not be necessary to renew this legislation when it expires next November, but for us to be able to ensure that depends on a number of things, as my right hon. Friend has heard me say not very long ago, including progress on our balance of payments and progress in making the T.U.C.'s own machinery more effective.

Sir C. Osborne

Between now and the end of next year, does the Prime Minister intend to ram down the throats of trade unionists his prices and incomes policy whether they like it or not?

The Prime Minister

We intend to maintain the laws which have been passed by this House until they expire next November. My right hon. Friend the First Secretary will continue, as she has been doing in the last 24 hours—late at night and again this morning—to emphasise the fact that very good and liberal increases in pay are possible on a basis of increased productivity. That is what we are ramming down their throats.