HC Deb 03 November 1970 vol 805 c836
16. Mr. Emery

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the economic and financial effects to the economy of the dock strike.

Mr. Barber

Any estimate of the economic and financial effects of the dock strike is necessarily uncertain, and complete figures are not yet available for a comprehensive assessment.

Mr. Emery

When the comprehensive assessment is available, will my right hon. Friend see that it is published? Will he also attempt to have pointed out to those concerned with the strike the fact that the loss of exports, particularly in the motor industry, has had a very adverse long-term effect on many people in industry who are trying very hard to build up the exports necessary for the British economy?

Mr. Barber

I would certainly consider the request of my hon. Friend. I agree with him that without doubt it will be shown that the dock strike damaged to some extent our exports and certainly for a time put up prices for the housewife.

Mr. Roy Hughes

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the strike was forced on the trade unions by the 19th century attitude of the employers, who simply refused to sit down and negotiate a settlement? Will he further appreciate that the real answer to the problems of this vital industry remains public ownership?

Mr. Barber

I totally disagree with the hon. Gentleman.