HC Deb 16 March 1955 vol 538 c127W
Mr. H. Wilson

asked the Attorney-General if he is aware that trade association courts are acting in support of conspiracies in restraint of trade; and what action he proposes to take in the matter.

The Attorney-General

Section 2 of the Trade Union Act, 1871, provides that the purposes of any trade union shall not, by reason merely that they are in restraint of trade, be deemed to be unlawful, so as to render any member of such trade union liable to criminal prosecution for conspiracy or otherwise. I am not aware of any actions by trade association tribunals in restraint of trade which are not protected by this Section, and I do not therefore propose to take any action in the matter.