HC Deb 01 July 1982 vol 26 c1027
4. Mr. Ron Brown (Leith)

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on how many occasions he has met representatives of the trade unions in Northern Ireland since he took office.

Mr. Prior

I have met representatives of the trade unions on 12 occasions.

Mr. Brown

This may seem a slightly unusual question. Does the Secretary of State appreciate that a large number of Catholic and Protestant workers are demanding that the Northern Ireland trade unions form a Labour Party to represent common interests in the struggle to defend jobs and living standards? Is that not important?

Mr. Prior

It is hardly for me to pursue the question whether the trade unions should form a Labour Party.