§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the total cost of paying 40 per cent. of the normal weekly wage to each member of the Essex ambulance staff for any period that they were not working as a result of the recent dispute.
§ Mr. DeakinsThe estimated gross cost of salaries and wages for running the Essex ambulance service during the period of dispute if full salaries and wages had been paid to all staff was £153,000. The cost of maintaining the service during this period is now estimated at £147,000; this includes an estimated cost of £26,000 to cover 40 per cent. of wages of those who were involved in the dispute.
§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the handling of the recent dispute in the Essex ambulance service; and if he will investigate the possibilities 235W of improving labour relations and avoiding future disputes.
§ Mr. DeakinsIndustrial relations in the ambulance service in Essex are a matter for the Area Health Authority. I understand that unions and management are now considering how best to improve their future relations.