(1) Where any trade dispute exists or is apprehended the Governor General may, whether or not the dispute is reported to him or her under this Act, inquire into the causes and circumstances of the dispute, and, if he or she thinks fit, refer any matters appearing to him or her to be connected with or relevant to the dispute to a board of inquiry (hereinafter referred to as the board) appointed by him or her for the purpose of such reference, and the board shall inquire into the matters referred to it and report thereon to the Governor General.