HC Deb 26 March 1970 vol 798 cc1623-4
2. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity whether she will initiate an inquiry into the continuing public transport strikes in Fife and other parts of Scotland, in view of the consequent hardship caused to other people.

43. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity if she will make a statement on the current unofficial strikes affecting public transport in Scotland.

The Under-Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity (Mr. Harold Walker)

Following rejection of an agreement reached on the National Council for the Omnibus Industry by a Scottish delegate conference of the T.G.W.U. talks took place between representatives of the Scottish Bus Group and the union. As a result certain proposals were put to a Scottish delegate conference of the union on 25th March which accepted them. It is hoped there will be an early resumption of work.

There have been weekly, one-day strikes of railway guards in the West of Scotland since 2nd March over mileage payments, the promotion of guards and the abolition of the conductor/guard grade. These issues are being discussed at national level within the pay and efficiency negotiations.

Mr. Hamilton

Is my hon. Friend aware that the whole of Scotland will be very gratified at the reported agreement? Does he agree that, if the reports are true, £17 10s. a week for a 40-hour week is not exactly extravagant from the workers' point of view?

Mr. Walker

I should not like to comment off hand on the earnings aspect, but I share my hon. Friend's hope that there will be a very speedy response to the decision which has been taken.

Mr. Taylor

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that many bus drivers in Scotland have apparently obtained other jobs during this long and damaging strike? Has he any assessment of how many might be involved and when services might return to normal?

Mr. Walker

I am unable to comment on the first part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question. On the second part, I understand that the union is making every possible effort to contact its members at local level today with a view to getting a speedy response and a resumption of work.