But if we reduce that fear and give proper consideration and effective help, we can help, I think, to create an atmosphere in which the need for change is accepted and there is co-operation in creating an efficient and flexible economy.’[6]Responding to the argument of the British Employers' Confederation (the forerunner of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI)) that reasonable notice should be left to negotiation, he said he understood the view.

"I do not think that we should forget that progress by voluntary negotiation benefits, of course, the organised worker - the trade union member.

[8]He said however the Government was open to the idea that unions and employers could contract out of the arrangements, and to consider whether the Bill could be made more flexible.

"[9]On the purpose of having a written record of one's terms, Mr Hare stated that, "this is an important requirement.

He will know as an individual where he stands, and should any question arise over the terms on which he works he will have definite evidence which can be used in a court of law.

In firms in differing industries through the land long-service employees can be "chucked out" at an hour, a day, or a week's notice, however faithfully they may have served their employer.

According to William Whitlaw MP, the Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Labour, that was intended to exclude "people with spare-time occupations and those who do weekend jobs" and cases in which "the employment relationship is not of substantial importance to the parties concerned".

Under the Act, it was a criminal offence, punishable by fine, for the employer to refuse to give the requisite written statement.