§ Mr. Muddasked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the nature of the dispute currently affecting Falmouth Docks; what approaches have been made to his Department by any or either of the parties in dispute; what initiative his Department is prepared to take to bring about an early resolution of the dispute; and what information he has about the intention of the yard's owners in relation to recommencing normal working.
§ Mr. BoothThe dispute arises over the interpretation of an agreement between Silley Cox and Company Limited and the signatory trade unions. The issues involve arrangements for consultation, the introduction of shift working and arbitration. At the request of the trade unions my conciliation officers held two joint meetings on 4th and 8th March. These meetings led to the company and trade unions agreeing to resume negotiations within procedure. It is their joint intention to agree a return to work just as quickly as possible.