28 of 1956; subsequently renamed the Labour Relations Act, 1956), formed part of the apartheid system of racial segregation in South Africa.

The primary objective of the Industrial Conciliation Act was to separate the trade-union movements along racial lines, with the aim of weakening them.

The Act also gave additional powers to the minister to announce strikes illegal in essential industries.

They could apply for registration and then, if recognised by employers could establish a checkoff system to collect subscriptions and negotiate wage agreements.

Government employees were excluded from the scope of the Act, and trade unions were not allowed to have any connection with a political party.