54. Exclusion of evidence as to certain matters.

(1) Where a trade dispute relates to matters as to which negotiation or conciliation proceedings have taken place under this Act, no evidence shall be given in the proceedings before the Court as to such negotiation or conciliation proceedings other than a written statement in relation thereto agreed to and signed by the parties to the dispute.

(2) In a proceeding before the Court on a reference to the Court under section 20 (3), no evidence shall be given of any proceeding before the Director General under section 20 (2) other than a written statement in relation thereto agreed to and signed by the parties to the reference.

(3) No evidence shall be given in proceedings before the Court with regard to any offer relating to any matter connected with the trade dispute made without prejudice by any person or trade union except with the consent of that person or trade union.