HC Deb 31 January 1977 vol 925 cc18-9
12. Mrs. Hart

asked the Secretary of State for Industry how many orders he has made under Section 28 of the Industry Act 1975.

Mr. Les Huckfield

None, Sir.

Mrs. Hart

May I ask why? Is it that the Secretary of State is totally satisfied with the information supplied through the National Economic Development Council, or is it that he is not so satisfied? If he is not so satisfied, what steps is he taking to ensure that the provisions about disclosure of information are implemented and that information is available to the trade unions?

Mr. Huckfield

Section 28 was always envisaged as a reserve power. I bear in mind what my right hon. Friend has said about the need to disclose information. I also bear in mind what she says about the need to give that information to the trade union movement. It is a section that has always been regarded, since the 1975 White Power, as a reserve power.

Mr. Adley

Does the hon. Gentleman understand that, while the exchange of information to trade unions about decisions taken at board level and about industrial participation is important, the real power nowadays in British industry tends to lie with trade unions? What is he doing to ensure that information about what goes on in trade unions and at trade union meetings is made available to management?

Mr. Huckfield

The hon. Gentleman can always join a trade union and find out.

Mr. Adley

I have tried twice and been turned down.

Mr. Huckfield

I do not know who they were, but they made an excellent decision.