§ 40. Mr. Steeleasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has come to a decision on the claim by the probation officers in Scotland for an increase in salary.
§ Mr. J. StuartI am informed that the probation officers have asked my right hon. and learned Friend the Minister of Labour to refer their claim for an increase of salary to arbitration. Until the result of the arbitration is known I can take no action.
§ Mr. SteeleIs the Minister aware that probation officers in England and Wales received an increase in salary many months ago, that Scottish probation officers have put in an application for the same rate of salaries, but that up to the present this has not been granted? Can the Minister give an undertaking that when the recommendations are made he will ensure that probation officers in Scotland do not receive a lesser salary than that received by probation officers in England and Wales?
§ Mr. StuartI am afraid I cannot say anything while this matter is being considered. It is at present under arbitration.
§ Mr. SteeleCannot the Minister at least give an undertaking that when the recommendations are put forward he will not accept anything less for probation officers in Scotland than that received by probation officers in England and Wales?
§ Mr. StuartThat is a different question. I must first see the result of the arbitration.