asked the Minister of Labour what are the weekly earnings of the men who are on strike at Port Talbot; what is the size of the wage increase claimed which is the subject of dispute; and if he will make a statement on the progress of his talks with both sides of the industry

The Ministry does not publish separate figures for the earnings of employees at individual firms. The Steel Company of Wales has stated that the average weekly earnings of A.E.U. members employed at its Port Talbot Works are £25. The union has stated that the average weekly earnings of its members are £22. The union claim is for a substantial increase. No specific amount has been stated. As the House will be aware, a proposal made by the T.U.C. on Friday, following its discussions with all the unions concerned, was considered at a meeting of A.E.U. members at Port Talbot this morning. I understand that the T.U.C.'s proposal was not adopted and that the meeting put forward alternative proposals.

Sir C. Osborne:Is my right hon. Friend aware that some newspaper reports—I do not know whether they are accurate or not—suggest that the substantial increase to which he refers amounts to about £10 a week? In view of the fact that these steel workers are now getting £25 a week and that the agricultural worker gets about £10 a week, is not their action unpatriotic, selfish and greedy, and contrary to the public interest?

I do not think it would help if I were to involve myself publicly in discussion of this matter. I am sure that my hon. Friend will realise the delicate nature of the discussions. I must try to find a solution to this dispute and I shall continue to do so.