HC Deb 14 October 1969 vol 788 cc48-9W
56. Mr. Lipton

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will make a statement on the collection of refuse in the London area.

Mr. Greenwood

The unofficial strike of refuse collectors in London and certain other towns and cities occurred at a time when pay increases for all local government manual workers were under negotiation by their National Joint Council. The negotiations resulted in an agreement last Thursday which provided for substantial increases for the men concerned and the unions are advising their members to return to work. I understand that this advice has been accepted by the men in a number of local authorities both in London and the provinces and I very much hope that the rest will recognise that they have secured a just settlement and return to work as quickly as possible, so that further inconvenience to the public can be avoided.

Although, I am advised that there is at present no danger to public health, my medical advisers will continue to keep in touch with the situation in those boroughs still affected by the strike.