HC Deb 06 August 1975 vol 897 cc262-3W
Mr. David Howell

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what representations he has received as to the allocation of vacant trade union seats on the Economic and Social Committee of the EEC; what consultation he has had with representatives of the 1 million people in independent unions, staff and professional associations outside the TUC; and what action he proposes to take to ensure that work people in this group are fairly represented.

Mr. Foot

I have had representations from a number of unions and staff associations and also from the Confederation of Employee Organisations. In reply, I have explained that I have followed past practice in matters of this kind and consulted the General Council of the TUC as the organisation most representative of workers' interests in this country. When, following these consultations, the appointments are made, I believe that the interests of British workers as a whole will be fully and comprehensively represented in Brussels.

AVERAGE WEEKLY EARNINGS—FULL—TIME MANUAL WORKERS
MLH 412 MLH 413
Spinning and doubling on the cotton and flax systems Weaving of cotton, linen, and man-made fibres
Men 21 and over Women18 and over Men 21 and over Women 18 and over
£ £ £ £
United Kingdom 41.77 26.38 43.00 26.96
North West Region 40.90 26.87 42.84 28.08