HC Deb 19 December 1980 vol 996 cc383-4W
Mr. John Hunt

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he has had any recent discussions with the chairman of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service with regard to the industrial dispute affecting the Kentish Times newspapers; and if, in the light of the failure of the conciliation attempts, his Department is proposing to take any initiative to resolve this dispute which has now lasted for more than 15 weeks.

Mr. Mayhew

My right right hon. Friend has had no discussions about this dispute, nor does he think that intervention would be helpful. My hon. Friend understands that ACAS remains in touch with the parties to the dispute and is ready to provide any further assistance that might be sought towards finding a solution.