HC Deb 23 March 1971 vol 814 cc247-8
Q5. Mr. Marten

asked the Prime Minister when the Trades Union Congress last sought a meeting with him on matters of mutual concern.

The Prime Minister

I was glad to have the opportunity of discussing the economic situation with the T.U.C. on 11th March, and I look forward to further exchanges of view.

Mr. Marten

Now that the T.U.C. has condemned the strikes against the Industrial Relations Bill, would it not be logical for it to condemn the victimisation of those who did not strike against the Bill?

The Prime Minister

The condemnation was made at the Congress at Croydon. We would all hope that no action will be taken against members of trade unions who did not take part in a political strike.

Mr. James Hamilton

Will the Prime Minister give us an assurance that he will take cognisance of the point of view expressed to him not only by the T.U.C. but by the C.B.I., that he should reflate the economy, thereby giving the people of Scotland in particular some hope about this Government?

The Prime Minister

As both the C.B.I. and the T.U.C. saw, my colleagues and I took very careful note of all the representations made to us, especially on the questions of investment, unemployment and inflation. I have no doubt that my right hon. Friend the Chancellor will take careful note of them all in forming his Budget proposals.