§ Mr. W. GRAHAMasked the Minister of Labour whether he has received representations from the Scottish Bankers' Association, representing a large number of the employés in the Scottish banks, indicating that they have approached the banks with a request for a better scale of remuneration, and also for the establishment of a Whitley Council to deal with all questions affecting the profession; whether the banks have so far refused to meet the employés to discuss the situation or to recognise their association; whether any steps have been taken by his Department to deal with the deadlock; and what is the present position of this dispute?
§ Sir R. HORNESome informal negotiations have already taken place with the Scottish banks following upon a request from the Scottish Bankers' Association, for a Whitley Council, but so far, without 1183W definite result. The hon. Member will be aware that the formation of such a Council is a voluntary act upon the part of both employers and employed in the industry or profession concerned, and also that I have no power to compel any body of employers to recognise a particular association claiming to represent their staffs. In view, however, of the strong desire on the part of the Scottish Bankers' Association for some form of joint discussion on matters affecting their interests, such as remuneration, etc., I propose to approach the banks again in the matter.