asked the Minister for Labour if he is aware of the grave concern of the trade union movement and the public generally, at the reported incidents of the use of electronic listening devices in the sphere of industrial relations; if he shares this concern; and if so, if he will introduce as part of his proposed legislation in this sphere measures to outlaw the use of such methods as unethical and inimical to the best interests of standards of decency and industrial peace in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Electronic Listening Devices.
235.
While I have seen reports of isolated incidents in the news media, I am not aware of the use of electronic listening devices in industry in general or in the area of industrial relations in particular. I would be very concerned if there was evidence to suggest that the use of such devices in industry for purposes related to industrial relations was widespread. Such practice could not be regarded as being conducive to the promotion of the spirit of trust and co-operation necessary for good industrial relations.
I do not consider that my proposed industrial relations legislation would be the appropriate vehicle for measures to deal with the use of listening devices, even if it were firmly established that such measures were necessary.