38.—(1) Where the Minister is of the opinion that a trade dispute, actual or apprehended, affects the public interest, he may refer the matter to the Commission or the Court, which shall endeavour to resolve the dispute.

(2) Where the Minister is of the opinion that a trade dispute is a dispute of special importance, he may request the Commission or the Court or another person or body to conduct an enquiry into the dispute and to furnish a report to him on the findings.