Workforce: Trades Union Congress Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateDepartment: Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
Lord McNicol of West Kilbride
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Workforce: Trades Union Congress
Lord McNicol of West Kilbride Excerpts(1 year, 9 months ago)
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Lord Callanan (Con)
I am sure that the Prime Minister does not need my advice as to whether she wishes to meet the Trades Union Congress. The direct answer to my noble friend’s Question is that I have no information that a meeting is scheduled or not.
Lord McNicol of West Kilbride (Lab)
My Lords, Frances O’Grady, the TUC general secretary, will be a welcome addition to your Lordships’ House. Last year, when talking about supply chains and employment, she said:
“Ministers may scratch their heads about how to protect supply chains and fill vacancies. Well, here’s a novel idea. Invite unions in with employers. Get us around the table. And let’s make that industry deliver decent conditions, direct employment and a proper pay rise.”
Does the Minister share my view that this is an eminently sensible suggestion, and will he action it?
Lord Callanan (Con)
We are always looking for helpful suggestions to improve supply chains. In fact, Frances O’Grady was in a BEIS meeting with one of my ministerial colleagues in August. We remain open to constructive meetings with trade unions where it is required.