§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what statutory protection exists for constables of police forces under the provisions of the Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act 1847 from unfair dismissal; what statutory restrictions exist on their taking industrial action; what statutory police federation exists to represent them; and what statutory restrictions exist on their entitlement to join a trade union.
§ Mr. NorrisI understand that the provisions of the Employment Protection (Consolidation) Act 1978 do not apply to persons employed as police constables under any enactment. The provisions of the 1847 Act, which are incorporated in various local harbours Acts, cover only the swearing in of constables and their dismissal from that office by the justices. They do not mention conditions of employment.
§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what statutory protection exists for constables of the Port of Tilbury police from unfair dismissal; what statutory restrictions exist on their taking industrial action; what statutory police federation exists to represent them; and what statutory restrictions exist on their entitlement to join a trade union.
§ Mr. NorrisThere is provision for a statutory police federation at the Port of Tilbury. The legislation debars constables from membership of a trade union. I understand that taking part in industrial action would be a disciplinary offence.