HC Deb 18 February 1971 vol 811 cc540-1W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is aware that strikes are to take place on 1st March and 18th March affecting all industries and businesses which employ workers connected with the engineering industry; and whether he will, before these dates, take action to meet the trade unions concerned to discuss their grievances and to see what action he can take to prevent these strikes taking place.

Mr. Bryan

My right hon. Friend continues to be ready to discuss the proposals in the Industrial Relations Bill with the representatives of the trade union movement even though he deplores the decision of the A.U.E.W. to use the strike weapon in support of political objectives.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is aware that on Sunday, 21st February, the Trades Union Congress is to hold a meeting and demonstration of trade unionists in London regarding the Government's Industrial Relations Bill; and whether he will request the Trades Union Congress to grant him the facilities of addressing this meeting.

Mr. Bryan

The answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes", and to the second "No".