§ Major PRESCOTTasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that the clerical staff of the Essex County Council are receiving war bonus at the rate of 14s. per week only, which sum was awarded to the Civil Service in December, 1917; whether he is aware that notwithstanding the representations made by the Ministry, and previously by the Local Government Board, either for the adoption of subsequent Civil Service awards or for the differences to be settled by arbitration, the council still refuse to increase the rate of bonus or to go to arbitration; and whether, in view of the attitude of the county council, which is causing unrest amongst the staff, he will take steps to bring about a satisfactory settlement?
§ Mr. WARDLEThe Department has been in communication with the parties to the difference, and a proposal has been, 745W made that the matter should be referred to arbitration. This proposal is at present under consideration by the county council.