HC Deb 12 May 1976 vol 911 cc196-7W
Mr. Brotherton

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how many people have appealed to industrial tribunals citing unfair dismissal arising from failure to comply with closed shop agreements; and how many appeals have been upheld.

Mr. Harold Walker

Between September 1974 and March 1976, the latest date for which information is available, 71 people have complained to industrial tribunals of unfair dismissal in a closed shop. The complaints of 25 people, involving about half a dozen situations, have been upheld.

Mr. Brotherton

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is his latest estimate of the percentage of United Kingdom labour force in closed shop agreements.

Mr. Harold Walker

Comprehensive information about closed shop agreements concluded between employers and unions is not available, and no firm estimate of the number of employees covered by such agreements can be made.

Mr. Brotherton

asked the Secretary of State for Employment in which EEC countries a closed shop system operates.

Mr. Harold Walker

Comprehensive information about the operation of closed shops in EEC countries is not available.