HC Deb 27 March 1979 vol 965 cc247-9
11. Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will discuss with the Trades Union Congress the effect on trade union and labour relations of the practice of extending industrial disputes beyond the immediate parties concerned.

Mr. Harold Walker

The conduct of industrial disputes is covered in detail in one of the three guides attached to the joint statement issued by the TUC and the Government. I have no plans for any further discussions on this subject at present.

Mr. Knox

Do the Government intend to do anything tangible about this practice in view of the great damage that is done to innocent third parties, to the national economy and to the reputation of the trade union movement?

Mr. Walker

I am not sure to what the hon. Gentleman is referring. If he has in mind what has been described as secondary picketing, that was the subject of a lengthy statement by my right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General on 25 January, in which he explained in detail the legal limitations that already exist on such action.

Mr. Stanbrook

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that seeking to achieve the reform of trade unions by consent is about as hopeless as trying to reduce crime by consent of the criminal?

Mr. Walker

That is an interesting comment, which I am sure will be carefully noted by many. The implication is that the trade union movement will be subjected to reform that will be thrust upon it if the Conservative Party ever gets the chance to do so.

Mr. Molloy

Does my hon. Friend understand that all the questions coming from the Tory Party have no sincerity? If the Tory Party can see anything that it can use to fan the flames of any industrial dispute, it will take that opportunity. If it can cause any form of confrontation between the Government, employers and workers, it will do it. When it has achieved that industrial unrest, it talks about the irresponsibility of trade unions. It does not mind how much it damages Great Britain as long as it feels that it has helped its political cause.

Mr. Speaker

Order. I have been tolerant today because I sense an atmosphere in the House. However, hon. Members must ask questions.

Mr. Walker

The short answer to my hon. Friend is "Yes". I think that everybody will now recognise that the Conservative Party is sustaining a well-orchestrated, politically motivated campaign of abuse and hatred of the trade unions which will only exacerbate bad industrial relations.