HC Deb 24 February 1969 vol 778 cc1076-7
56. Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity what representations she has received from road haulage companies in the West Midlands about the effect of strike action by their employees on wage increases in excess of increases in productivity; and what reply she has sent.

Mr. Harold Walker

Last year two road haulage firms in the West Midlands wrote to my regional office in Birmingham expressing doubt about the productivity justification for pay increases given after strikes had taken place. After consultation with the employers these settlements were referred to the N.B.P.I. for examination along with a number of other road haulage agreements which had already been implemented. The Board criticised the West Midlands agreements on the ground that they did not provide for realistic scheduling. They went on to suggest guidelines for future productivity bargaining in the industry. My Manpower and Productivity Service is available to help the industry in future negotiations.

Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

What happens as a result of the persons employed in these businesses being deprived of what they would otherwise get, and in many cases have already received?

Mr. Walker

I am sorry, but I really do not follow that.

Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

What happens in those industries and undertakings where persons employed therein have been deprived of what they struck for, and received in other cases where they were honestly agreed, but have been deprived thereof?

Mr. Walker

Nothing has happened. No one has been deprived of anything.