Page 702
When I originally saw the Trades Union Congress on this matter, I asked them especially whether their policy of wage restraint would be impeded by confirming Orders for the se retail wages proposals. I was assured that on the contrary it would be of assistance. I understand that, on the issue of now confirming the rates proposed by the Retail Drapery and the Furnishing Trades Councils, the Trades Union Congress take the view that it would be the completion of a process of wage regulation for the retail trades that has been going for some considerable time and that, while the timing is rather awkward, there is no alternative to confirmation. To refuse to con- firm would, in their view, create greater difficulties than confirmation.
12.
During the period of stabilisation difficult questions of confirmation of Wages Councils proposals will doubtless arise and will have to be considered in relation to the stabilisation arrangements. Until it is known precisely what these arrangements are I am not in a position to put forward proposals for dealing with this aspect of wages policy.
13.
As regards the immediate issue, I am of opinion that I should confirm the proposals of these two retail Wages Councils without dolay, whilst at the same time making it clear that in doing so I am simply finally implementing a decision of principle taken by the Cabinet in August and completing the work of establishing wage regulation for retail distribution.
Ministry of Labour and National Service,
22ND NOVEMBER, 1949.
S. W. 1.
Page 702
-3 mi
G. A. I.
Page 702
!
Ft
t
1
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.