§ Mr. O'GRADYasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that discontent exists among all classes of messengers, labourers, packers, porters, and cleaners in the whole of the Govern- 1331W ment offices owing to the delay in the hearing of their claim for an advance of wages; whether he has received a resolution of protest from the men concerned; and, if so, will steps be taken at once to submit the issue to the Conciliation and Arbitration Board for Government employés?
§ Mr. BALDWINI have received a resolution on this subject from the Workers' Union. The claim was in a form which did not permit the Treasury to refer a question in difference to the Board in accordance with the rules of procedure laid down for them by His Majesty's Government. Any delay that may have taken place is due to the delay of the union in furnishing further information asked for by the Treasury. I understand that the claim has now been modified to meet these difficulties and will be heard in its modified form at an early date.