HC Deb 24 July 1968 vol 769 cc114-5W
34. Sir E. Brown

asked the Minister of Transport if he will set up an inquiry into manpower in British Railways with particular reference to overmanning and productivity.

Mr. Carmichael

No. British Railways have already achieved considerable reductions in manpower. Moreover the Railways Board and the railway trade unions are engaged in extensive negotiations on pay and efficiency, involving far-reaching proposals for the more efficient use of manpower, in the meetings inaugurated by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister; these have now reached a very advanced stage, and we hope will soon be brought to a successful conclusion.