HC Deb 25 March 1974 vol 871 cc11-2W
Mr. Bishop

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that, due to a dispute with the Home Office over the on-call duties performed with wireless grade members of the Civil Service Union, there has been no on-call service available to police and fire brigades; what discussions he has had with the Civil Service Union on this matter; and what action he is taking to resolve the dispute.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

Yes, and I deeply regret the situation which has arisen. The dispute arises over a centrally-negotiated agreement on compensation for on-call duties which applies to the whole of the non-industrial Civil Service; it is not a matter that can be settled separately by the Home Office. My officials are in touch with those in the Civil Service Department who are responsible for the negotiations with the National Staff Side and every effort is being made to resolve the dispute.