§ 52. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will make a statement on the arbitration of the dispute between the Essex Area Health Authority and its ambulance-men.
§ Mr. DeakinsI am pleased to say that this dispute has been resolved by agreement between the area health authority and the unions and normal working has been resumed. Arbitration was not necessary. Under the settlement, the question of meal allowances was referred to the Joint Secretaries of the Whitley Council for further consideration.
§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the estimated total cost in a full year of 95W meeting the demands of protected Essex ambulance staff on meal allowances which led to the recent dispute.
§ Mr. DeakinsEstimated cost in Essex is £9,000 per annum.