§ 9. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Works what progress has been made respecting the grievances of bomb-repair workers and building operatives in the London area; and approximately, the amount of working time lost during the past three months for illness and for other causes.
§ Mr. TomlinsonThe settlement of these grievances is a matter for the industry itself. Negotiations on a claim by the operatives for an increase in the agreed rates of wages are at present taking place between the organisations of employers and operatives on the National Joint Council for the Building Industry. Information is not available as to the total amount of working time lost in London during the past three months.
§ Mr. SorensenCould the Minister say when, approximately, a conclusion will be reached in these negotiations, in view of the wastage of manpower that has already taken place?
§ Mr. TomlinsonNo, but I am informed that the negotiations are being speeded up.