§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Employment why his Department registered an objection to the settlement reached by the heating and ventilating contractors; what are the specific features to which it objects; when his agreement was promulgated; when the Department intervened; and what is the latest position.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerThe parties negotiated an agreement in September 1977 providing for an increase of 20 per cent. They were immediately asked to renegotiate and on 26th November promulgated a revised agreement which was also in excess of the guidelines. I informed the negotiators on 1st December. The parties have now negotiated a further agreement promulgated on 16th January which provides for increases which are within the pay guidelines.