HC Deb 23 February 1998 vol 307 c116W
23. Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations he has received from trade unions about the Government's welfare reform proposals. [29098]

Mr. Field

We are committed to reforming the welfare system in consultation with the people. That is why we have announced that we will consult individuals, organisations, including trade unions, and others with an interest before any changes are introduced.

During the pensions review consultation exercise, we received representations from the TUC and 16 trade unions. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State and Minister for Pensions has also met trade unions on several occasions as part of this consultation exercise.

We have also received a number of representations on various aspects of welfare reform from individual trade unions.