§ 16. Mr. Peter Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is aware of any impending strike action in hospitals by trade unionists opposed to public expenditure economies.
§ Mr. EnnalsNo, Sir, although I know that concern is being expressed in other ways.
§ Mr. MorrisonWill the Secretary of State explain to the unions in the National Health Service that direct action will not change the Government's mind about public expenditure cuts?
§ Mr. EnnalsWe shall not be influenced by unions, by doctors or by any others in the service who seek to take industrial action. The patients suffer when industrial action is taken, and I am certain that that cannot be right. I am sure that that would be condemned from both sides of the House.