HC Deb 19 March 1970 vol 798 cc603-4
34. Mr. Brooks

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity whether she will ask the Commission on Industrial Relations to investigate collective bargaining in the motor industry.

Mr. Harold Walker

My right hon. Friend has already made several references to the C.I.R. concerning companies which manufacture motor-car components. Other possible references relating to industrial relations in the motor industry are under active consideration.

Mr. Brooks

Can my hon. Friend indicate any industry in which there is a need for more urgent investigation of collective bargaining procedures than the motor industry? Does he agree that there is a major contradiction between the demands for parity and the desire of the Donovan Commission and many others to ensure that there is more plant and workshop bargaining?

Mr. Walker

Certainly. I am convinced that the C.I.R. can perform a useful rôle in this sphere, and we are taking action to enable it to do so.