§ Mr. Loveridgeasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will offer the use of the conciliation machinery in the British Rail industrial dispute which is causing inconvenience to commuters in Upminster and in other districts.
§ Mr. BoothThese strikes are wholly unofficial and have been condemned by the National Union of Railwaymen which negotiates on behalf of all signalmen. Agreement was reached yesterday between the union and British Rail on the reclassification of some signalmen's jobs and this will enhance the pay of many signalmen in the lower grades. In view of this, I hope that those responsible will now call off this unofficial action. Conciliation would not be appropriate.