§ Q3. Mr. Dodsworthasked the Prime Minister what is the division of responsibility between the Department of Trade, the Department of Industry and the Department of Employment concerning the Government's proposals on industrial democracy.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Government's proposals for a radical extension of democracy in British industry have wide-ranging implications. My right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Trade, Employment and Industry are all closely involved, as well as other Ministers.
§ Mr. DodsworthIs the Prime Minister aware that the principal resource of our nation is the skill and ability of the people of this country working in voluntary co-operation? Will he make sure, by the use of the secret ballot, that the dangers of coercion are avoided when 228 preparing proposals for co-determination in industry?
§ The Prime MinisterThe hon. Gentleman will not, I think, have been too disappointed about the result of certain decisions of certain unions, which showed greater courage, when deciding matters of inflation, for instance, than did some Opposition Members. On the question relating to industrial democracy, the hon. Gentleman was quite right to stress what he did. This is designed to ensure that the knowledge, experience and inventiveness on both sides of industry should be fully mobilised, on a united basis, to avoid problems that we have had in this country for 30 years. In the matter of industrial democracy, we are still a long way behind some of our continental competitors—irrespective of Government complexion—as we all realise, on both sides of the House. We have got to get it right. Hence, the inquiry was set up.
§ Mr. RadiceDoes my right hon. Friend accept that though the delay in setting up the committee has been a matter of concern on the Government side of the House, the Government have finally come up with a pretty impressive list of names? However, will he confirm that it is still the Government's intention to legislate in the 1976–77 Session?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. The committee is being asked to report within 12 months. It is our intention that this will lead to legislation in the 1976–77 Session.