§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, pursuant to the industrial tribunal decision in the case of Rigden/Hodgson, when he will issue employment contracts to auxiliary coastguards; if he has paid the arrears owing under the legislation on the national minimum wage; and if he will make a statement about the future employment of auxiliary coastguards. [123969]
§ Mr. HillThe decision of the Newcastle Employment Tribunal is being considered and legal advice taken on grounds for appeal.
All serving auxiliaries have been paid the arrears of pay due as a result of bringing auxiliary coastguards wages into line with the National Minimum Wage. There have been problems in getting back pay to those who have left the auxiliary service, but contact has been made wherever possible and the arrears will be paid shortly.