§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the estimated percentage increase in labour costs for shipowners implicit in the proposed pay increase of 8.8 per cent, and proposed adjustment in overtime rates and holiday entitlement which have recently been negotiated by the National Union of Seamen.
§ Mr. Chichester-ClarkI understand that the offer, which would add 8. per cent, to average earnings, affects over 300 companies. Each has differing overall 55W labour costs, and no meaningful estimate for the industry can be given.