§ Lord Brockwayasked Her Majesty's Government: Whether, in view of the serious criticism of contracts, working conditions and practices in the 748WA BBC External Services, particularly those affecting the staff from overseas, detailed in the report presented to management jointly by the ABS and the NUJ, they will ask ACAS or other appropriate persons to conduct an inquiry into the administration at Bush House and to consider changes which may be necessary, including the series of proposals for reforms which the two unions make.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Trefgarne)This is a matter between the BBC management and the unions concerned and it would not be appropriate for Her Majesty's Government to intervene. I understand negotiations are continuing; it is open to the interested parties to seek the assistance of ACAS if they so wish.
House adjourned at seventeen minutes past ten o'clock.