A discussion as to the degree that external law must be considered, if at all, in the arbitral resolution of the terms of a collective bargaining agreement. The author views the arbitrator as the “reader” of the agreement, under terms set by the parties and that, since the parties have agreed to accept an award as “final and binding,”, the courts have no basis to review the merits of thereof — with specific exceptions. Comments from attorneys representing employers and unions, respectively, generally concur but with anticipated exceptions.