Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service

HC Deb 12 July 1978 vol 953 cc585-6W

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Sectary of State for Employment what representations he has received from organisa- tions currently involved with, or that have previously been involved with intervention by, the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service in industrial disputes.

Mr. Harold Walker

I have had a number of representations from employers and trade unions about industrial disputes in which the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service has at some stage been involved. Such representations are generally made on a confidential basis.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how often his Department reviews the performance of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service in order to ensure that it is operating in accordance with the Employment Act 1975.

Mr. Harold Walker

It is for the courts to determine whether the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service is correctly interpreting its statutory responsibilities, not for my Department.