HC Deb 04 May 1955 vol 540 cc1672-3
20. Mr. Hamilton

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will make a further statement on the question of the review of the assisted travel schemes applicable to Royal dockyard workers.

The Civil Lord of the Admiralty (Mr. Wingfield Digby)

I regret that I am unable to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member on 16th February, 1955.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Minister aware that this question has been under review for almost 12 months? Will he give an undertaking that if the present Government are returned after the Election this cut in dockyard workers' wages will not be implemented?

Mr. Digby

It is not a question of a cut in the wages of dockyard workers. These schemes, affecting the whole of the country, are being reviewed.

Mr. Hamilton

Can the Minister say when we shall have the result of the negotiations, which have been going on for a long time?

Mr. Digby

I cannot promise any date.

Mr. Bottomley

Can the Civil Lord give an assurance that there will be no statement by the Government tomorrow, for electioneering purposes, that a concession has been given?