HC Deb 06 May 1952 vol 500 c167
13. Mr. George Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Labour what action is being taken by Remploy Limited with regard to a cost-of-living bonus claimed by employees.

Sir W. Monckton

A claim for increased wages has been the subject of negotiations between the company and the interested trade unions, and both parties have agreed that the matter should go to arbitration.

Mr. Chetwynd

Is there any indication that this can be settled speedily, since it has already been outstanding for eight months? Can the Minister also say that the reward will be retrospective, as it was in the case of foremen employed in these factories?

Sir W. Monckton

I cannot give any indication as to the award. I have not the date before me, but I think the decision to go to arbitration is a recent one.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

Can we have an assurance that this will go to the same arbitration tribunal as did the doctors' case recently?

Sir W. Monckton

I think that was a special arbitration tribunal. This matter will go to one which I shall select in the ordinary way.