asked the Minister of Labour if he will take steps to ensure that the trade unions are consulted and represented at all levels when arrangements are being made to adjust hours of work consequent upon the prevailing fuel and power situation.

These consultations have mainly taken place on a regional and local basis, and representatives of both sides of industry have been present at all stages.

Will not the Minister agree that it is desirable for the men's representatives to be in at all stages of these discussions? Is he aware that my information is that that has not been done completely, and decisions have been conveyed to the trade unions when the employers have discussed the matter amongst themselves, which may well cause delay and difficulty afterwards?

I have already said that the workers' representatives and the industry were present at these negotiations at all stages. If there is any local member of a trade union who thinks he is not having a fair deal, either from the union or anybody else, he can get proper treatment if he takes it to the union for their attention.