61. Mr. Leeasked the Minister of Labour whether he will seek powers to enable him to instruct those employers who intend to introduce automated processes into their factories first to discuss their plans with the appropriate trade unions.
§ Mr. CarrConsultation between employers and workpeople in this country has always been on a voluntary basis. It would be wrong to try to enforce it by legislation.
62. Mr. Leeasked the Minister of Labour whether he will seek powers to enable him to obtain from those employers who intend to introduce automated processes into their businesses, the numbers of workers who will be rendered redundant, and the types of occupation which will disappear.
§ Mr. CarrNo. My right hon. Friend feels sure that in such cases employers will recognise the need which he has repeatedly emphasised for giving the employment exchanges timely warning of expected redundancies, and that he can count upon their voluntary co-operation.