Kodak Limited

Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Labour – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 12 April 1965.

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Photo of Mr Peter Bessell Mr Peter Bessell , Bodmin 12:00, 12 April 1965

asked the Minister of Labour what representations he has received from the Association of Cinematograph Television and Allied Technicians regarding the conduct of Kodak Limited towards its employees; what action he has taken; and whether he will make a statement.

Photo of Mr Raymond Gunter Mr Raymond Gunter , Southwark

The General Secretary of the Association wrote to me on 8th March and one of my officers subsequently met him. I am aware of all the circumstances and I am satisfied that there is no further action which I can usefully take.

Photo of Mr Peter Bessell Mr Peter Bessell , Bodmin

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that however good Kodak Limited may be an an employer, the fact remains that no fewer than 11,000 workers in the firm are denied normal trade union representation and that this is a source of considerable disturbance not only to the workers in the firm but to the Association of Cinematograph, Television and Allied Technicians and to other people who value individual liberty to join a union of one's choice? Will the right hon. Gentleman look into this matter again?

Photo of Mr Raymond Gunter Mr Raymond Gunter , Southwark

I deplore the absence of negotiated trade union rights in Kodak.

Photo of Commander Anthony Courtney Commander Anthony Courtney , Harrow East

Will the right hon. Gentleman admit that it is a fact that Kodak is such a good employer of labour that it has not been necessary for the workers to form themselves into a trade union, or to join a trade union, to represent their interests?

Photo of Mr Raymond Gunter Mr Raymond Gunter , Southwark

The best employers in this country always encourage trade union organisation.

Photo of Mr Samuel Silverman Mr Samuel Silverman , Nelson and Colne

Has my right hon Friend's attention been drawn to a recent prosecution which showed that Kodak had entered into an agreement with a prosecution witness to pay him a sum of money for giving evidence and a further sum of money if his evidence proved satisfactory? Has he considered whether this agreement ought not to be referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions to see whether it involves a conspiracy to defeat the ends of justice?

Photo of Mr Raymond Gunter Mr Raymond Gunter , Southwark

I am very grateful that that is not within the purview of the Ministry of Labour. I understand that there is to be a Question on that subject to the Attorney-General later in the week.