§ Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Minister of State for Defence if he has received a letter signed by 202 people working at the Command Workshop, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Bovington, drawing attention to the fact that unskilled craftsmen are now taking home less than £16 per week, that overtime is not to be depended upon, that a proposed increase of £1.50 is not commensurate with the skills exercised in these shops; and if, in the light of their responsibilities, including the supply of armoured vehicles to Ulster, he will increase their remuneration.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerI have been asked to reply.
I have received the letter. The basic rate for craftsmen in Government industrial establishments is £23.35. The Government have informed the Trade Union Side of the Joint Co-ordinating Committee for Government Industrial Establishments that they are more than willing to consider arbitration in this dispute.