HC Deb 01 February 1965 vol 705 cc219-20W
Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when draft proposals for legislation to ratify the International Labour Organisation Convention No. 96 were prepared by his Department.

Mr. George Thomas

Draft proposals were circulated to the associations of local authorities in 1955 and to the Trades' Union Congress, employers' associations and other interested bodies in 1957.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information was given to the Trades Union Congress in June, 1961, as to the progress of the Government's intention to introduce legislation in ratification of the International Labour Organisation Convention No. 96.

Mr. George Thomas

According to my information the Trades Union Congress was informed on 1st November, 1960, that pressure of Parliamentary business had so far prevented the introduction of legislation on fee-charging employment agencies.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the Trade Union Congress was notified that the Government's consultations with employers and agencies on the ratification of the International Labour Organisation Convention No. 96 were complete.

Mr. George Thomas

No notification to this effect has been given to the Trades Union Congress.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that, during the years in which legislation in ratification of the International Labour Organisation Convention No. 96 has been awaited, abuses have flourished, especially in the case of theatrical agents, such as the charging of commission by employers on the salaries of their own employees; and if he will introduce the necessary legislation without further delay.

Mr. George Thomas

My hon. Friend has already drawn my attention to this complaint about the operation of certain theatrical agencies and consideration is being given to it. The question of legislation to ratify the Convention is under consideration, but my right hon. Friend cannot undertake to give priority to it.