§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Labour on what date he began discussions with the Trades Union Congress and the Confederation of British Industry concerning the future of wages councils; when he expects those discussions to be terminated; if he will publish the views disclosed by the Trades Union Congress and the Confederation of British Industry on these councils; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GunterI wrote to the C.B.I. and T.U.C. on 23rd June enclosing a memorandum noting questions concerning the Wages Council system which needed consideration. I invited the C.B.I. and the T.U.C. to discuss these matters with me, Arrangements will be made for meetings when they have had an opportunity of considering them. As already announced, the Government will await the report of the Royal Commission before reaching any final conclusions about the future of the Wages Council system.