§ Mr. Chapmanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will report progress on his negotiations with the Civil Service unions on the recommendations of the Megaw Commission report.
§ Mr. HayhoeMy right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced on 21 December 1982 that the unions had been informed that the Government were prepared to enter into negotiations with them with a view to agreeing an ordered pay determination system based on the recommendations of the Megaw report. The Council of Civil Service Unions responded on 5 January and a meeting took place on 27 January. Although that meeting was largely concerned with matters of procedure, both sides emphasised that they approached the negotiations with good will and the intention to succeed. Detailed negotiations are now being carried forward as quickly as possible.