Derek McDowell (Labour)

I congratulate them on their efficient treatment of Committee Stage.

I accept that this is a partnership Bill and an issue of the partnership process, into which we are all bound to a greater or lesser extent. However, a greater issue is the right of people to be represented by a trade union which, in turn, is recognised by employers as a negotiating body. Sooner or later we will have to deal with that issue. Many in Government are favourably disposed to that but we have not yet succeeded in negotiating a solution at partnership level. In the next stage of partnership, in the not too distant future, I hope we will succeed in grasping that nettle.