§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Employment what further discussions he has had with the oil industry about the need for trade union recognition and facilities on North Sea oil rigs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BoothI have not had any discussions with the oil industry on this matter, which is for the unions to pursue with 169W the emloyers. The Conciliation and Arbitration Service is available to give advice and assistance.
§ Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will introduce legislation to reduce the number of trade unions in the United Kingdom to a number which is comparable with that existing in other competitive countries within the EEC.
§ Mr. BoothNo. It is for the trade unions to decide whether amalgamations are desirable. The Trade Union (Amalgamations etc) Act 1964 removed a number of legal obstacles to amalgamation in cases where the unions wish to merge.