§ 26. Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if 1070 he will now make a statement on the inquiry into the use of police dogs during an industrial dispute at London Airport.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantIt is understood that a report will be submitted to the Chairman of the Police Committee of the British Airports Authority shortly. We will then consider in consultation with the Chairman of the B.A.A. whether any statement should be made.
§ Mr. AllaunIs the hon. Gentleman aware that it is now four months since this happened and that I and others have asked him questions about it on several occasions? Does he realise that we would like to know who gave the instructions to take the dogs there? Will that person be disciplined and will the Government send to all employers a copy of the Home Office circular of 1963 pointing out that it is a dangerous and provocative practice to send police dogs to meetings of trade unionists?
§ Mr. GrantAll these matters had better await the result of the inquiry. I understand that the reason for the delay is that there has been difficulty in obtaining statements from witnesses still subject to court proceedings and from others subject to High Court injunctions. It is obviously right that the inspectors should do the job thoroughly rather than rush it.
§ Mr. MasonWill the hon. Gentleman explain to the House what is his attitude to the use of dogs in industrial disputes?
§ Mr. GrantI have nothing further to add to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.
§ Mr. MasonOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I am sure the hon. Gentleman does not want to mislead the House, but he has made a reference to a statement made by the Home Secretary. That was about picketing and had nothing to do with police dogs and industrial disputes.
§ Mr. GrantFurther to that point of order. I should explain that the reference I was making was to an answer given by my right hon. Friend as reported in HANSARD for 2nd December, 1971.