§ We remain unconvinced of the justification for a wage advance under existing conditions. But to show that we are sincerely anxious to maintain the joint machinery and promote good relations, we are prepared on our side to make an offer. But we must attach conditions to it. These are as follows: —
§ On the first feature of our proposals relating to the scheme of decasualisation, we are anxious to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion at the earliest possible moment. We propose that the Council should proceed to discuss it and in the event of a breakdown in negotiations we should jointly ask the Minister for an independent inquiry in the terms of his assurance of 12th November, 1945 (Annexe). Both sides should undertake to make every effort to expedite the preparation of permanent schemes of decasualisation.
A Joint Committee of the National Joint Council shall be established forthwith with the following terms of reference: —To examine the industrial arrangements of the Industry on the basis that there will be permanent schemes of decasualisation, and to report.
§ The Committee to be provided with an independent Chairman appointed by the Minister of Labour and National Service after consultation with the two sides. Where the Independent Chairman so agrees, on the instance of either side, the National Joint Council shall report a difference to the Minister of Labour and National Service.
1334§ Subject to the acceptance of the foregoing, our offer is as follows: —
- (a) to increase the national minimum wage of time workers and the minimum guarantee to piece workers from 16s. to on the half daily basis:
- (b) permanent men whose rates of pay are directly governed by agreements of the National Joint Council, to have their wages increased by per week:
- (c) piece workers to receive 5 per cent. increase on existing piece work rates (i) in lieu of each is. per day flat rate increase being received under existing National Agreements and (ii) for each is. per day increase granted under (a) above, with proportionate increases for fractions of is. granted:
§ Provided (a) that this offer is not to be regarded as stabilising existing piece work rates or as precluding a local revision of such rates, and also (b) that it is without prejudice to any question of a national review of piece work principles.
§ As amended 27th November,1915.