HC Deb 30 March 1955 vol 539 cc374-5
50. Mr. D. Jones

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what consultations have taken place between the Government of British Guiana and the Federation of Unions of Government Employees about the implementation of the Hand Report; and whether he will take steps to see that consultations take place between the two sides and if possible that agreement is reached before any attempt is made to implement the recommendations of the Report.

Mr. Hopkinson

The Federation of Unions of Government Employees has already submitted its comments on the Report and these are being considered by the British Guiana Government. There will be further opportunity for representations by staff associations when the Government's recommendations on the Report are submitted for consideration. by the Legislature.

Mr. Jones

Can the Minister assure us that a real attempt will be made to reach some kind of agreement between the two sides before the recommendations are implemented?

Mr. Hopkinson

Yes, Sir. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that the British Guiana Government, as also, of course, Her Majesty's Government, are naturally anxious that salary revisions should, if possible, have the agreement of the staff associations concerned.