§ 8. Mr. Gowasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether, in the light of further dismissals of employees by British Railways for refusing to join a trade union, he is satisfied with the present law relating to the closed shop.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerYes, Sir.
§ Mr. GowIs the Minister aware that since the Adjournment debate on 7th April last the number of employees of British Rail who have been dismissed for refusing to join a union has increased from 31 to 40? Is it not clear that as the closed shop is extended the man without a union card will find it impossible to get a job? Does the Minister believe that it is right for the Government to accept a policy of neutrality when we are moving towards a closed shop Britain?
§ Mr. WalkerWe believe that it is right that we should have a policy of neutrality and that the law should be neutral, as it is. The hon. Member is asking the Government to move away from neutrality against the closed shop. We prefer to remain neutral.
§ Mr. HayhoeCan the Minister explain how this neutrality differs from the neutrality of Pontius Pilate?
§ Mr. GowOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek an early opportunity to raise the matter on the Adjournment.