HC Deb 09 January 1978 vol 941 cc1246-7
7. Mr. Channon

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what progress has been made in settling pay claims within those nationalised industries for which he is responsible.

Mr. Benn

I understand that discussions are proceeding in respect of all claims so far received.

Mr. Channon

Can the Secretary of State confirm that it remains the Government's policy and his own personal policy for all the nationalised industries, including those involving the miners and the firemen, to settle claims within the 10 per cent. guidelines?

Mr. Benn

The Government's policy has been made clear on so many occasions that I can say categorically that there is no doubt that management, in negotiations with the unions, has this in mind when reaching conclusions on negotiations when they take place. Some of them are now taking place.

Mr. Heffer

I was going to ask my right hon. Friend whether it is true that Mr. Frank Chapple is now a secret Communist.

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