asked the Prime Minister why he has refused to grant an interview to a deputation from the Federation of Independent Trade Unions, a nonpolitical body; whether the T.U.C. is the only body consulted on trade union matters; and whether political affiliation is a condition of recognition by His Majesty's Government.

The Trades Union Congress is the established channel of communication between the Government and the trade union movement on matters such as those which the Federation of Independent Trade Unions desired to discuss. Arrangements for consultation between the Government and the two sides of industry are not affected by considerations such as those suggested in the third part of the Question.

Do I understand from that answer there is no insistence on political affiliation?

I think the hon. Member is quite mistaken. There is no affiliation of the Trades Union Congress to any particular party.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that these trade unions are composed of a very small and insignificant minority in the trade union world, and do not, in fact, take part in normal negotiations in industry?