§ Sir Russell Johnstonasked the Paymaster General what consideration has been given to the Vredeling directive, as amended on 13 July 1983, in the light of recent events at the Caterpillar plant, Uddingston; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LeeThe Goverment have already made it clear that they are greatly concerned about the events at the Caterpillar plant, Uddingston. They are firmly committed to the principle of employees being informed and consulted about matters which affect them and have consistently encouraged employers to develop procedures appropriate to their particular circumstances. But they remain opposed to the directive because they believe that the imposition of a rigid legal framework would disrupt existing arrangements and damage industrial relations.