HC Deb 22 July 1980 vol 989 c158W
24. Mr. Crouch

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied with the progress being made by employers and trade unions in industrial democracy; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mayhew

I am encouraged by the positive approach of the CBI, BIM and others in introducing guidelines for wider employee involvement, and by the discussions between the TUC and CBI on joint guidelines for the introduction of new technology. But we cannot afford to relax our efforts. My right hon. Friend and I have taken several recent opportunities to impress upon industry, and particularly upon management, the need to make progress in this area and will continue to do so.

53. Mr. Nicholas Baker

asked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he will propose measures to promote greater employee participation.

Mr. Mayhew

Nothing is more important for improving industrial relations than the wider involvement of the work force in matters which affect it at its place of work. The prime responsibility for bringing this about must rest with employers and employees themselves. My right hon. Friend and I have taken several recent opportunities to impress—particularly on managements with whom the initiative lies—the need to make progress in this area.

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