§ Mr. Hornerasked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs whether he is aware that a full and detailed account of the contents of the National Board for Prices and Incomes' Report on Fire Service Pay was disclosed to newspapers some 48 hours before it was available to the Fire Brigades Union; and what steps he is taking to guarantee protection to trade unions against disclosures, which cause embarrassment, in the future.
§ Mr. M. StewartYes. I have been assured by the Chairman of the National Board for Prices and Incomes that this disclosure has caused him acute embarrassment and that for his part he is taking all possible steps to ensure that the findings of the Board remain confidential until they are published.
§ Mr. Tom McMillanasked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs if he has received the Report by the National Board for Prices and Incomes on Merchant Navy Officers' Pay; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Frederick LeeMy right hon. Friends the First Secretary of State and the Minister of Labour have now received the Report which is expected to be published on 2nd June. In the special circumstances of the shipping industry it is essential for the employers to send out revised instructions on rates of pay at least four weeks before 3rd July, the date of implementation already agreed by the parties. My right hon. Friends have therefore thought it right to tell the representatives of the parties concerned of the recommendations prior to the date of official publication.