§ Q8. Mr. Geoffrey Finsbergasked the Prime Minister when he expects next to have a meeting with the Trades Union Congress.
§ The Prime MinisterThe T.U.C. know that the Government are willing to discuss with them at any time matters of common concern. I have at present no plans for a further meeting with the T.U.C.
§ Mr. FinsbergI thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. If the T.U.C. continues to claim to talk in the national interest, does not my right hon. Friend consider that it might follow the example of the Institute of Directors and invite the Prime Minister of the day to talk to the full conference rather than keeping matters on a close, cosy, party-political basis?
§ The Prime MinisterIt is a matter entirely for the T.U.C. to decide who it wishes to address its conferences. I am sure that if it were to send an invitation to the leader of any political party, naturally he would give it careful consideration.
§ Mr. OrmeDid the Prime Minister see the General Council's reaction to the Social Security Bill in its statement issued yesterday opposing the abolition of the three waiting days for unemployment, sick and injury benefits? What would he tell the T.U.C. about these proposals if he met it?
§ The Prime MinisterThe T.U.C. has not asked to discuss these matters. Our reasons for this Bill have been set out. They were shared by right hon. and hon. Gentlemen opposite when they were in power.