Member

We had effective scrutiny in the House of Lords, with sensible amendments tabled, but the Government’s argument was, first, that this was not specifically in their manifesto—but we are talking about a unique set of circumstances—and, secondly, that it would somehow constrain the trade unions and normal industrial relations. But the very reason for the amendment is that strike action taking place during a global sporting event that is being held in the UK would not be business as usual. That would not be normal industrial relations; it would be a trade union trying to exploit that unique opportunity for leverage. That would not be in keeping with the spirit of the Bill.