§ 48. Mr. Shepherdasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that legislation to increase the salaries of junior Ministers has the general approval of the House; and when he intends to introduce such legislation.
§ The Prime MinisterHer Majesty's Government have the question of junior Ministers' salaries before them, but I am not yet in a position to make a statement.
§ Mr. H. HyndWill the Prime Minister bear in mind that some junior Ministers offered strenuous opposition to the recent small increase awarded to other hon. Members of the House? Will he see that they do not get the benefit of any increase?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not think that that is the kind of basis upon which the House would like to determine the question.
§ Mr. BellengerI approve the reconsideration or revision of junior Ministers' salaries, but will the Prime Minister bear in mind that this is only one part of the whole working of the House of Commons? Will he, therefore, keep in close touch with the leaders of the Opposition, through the usual channels, in 501 order to consider other matters which may be relevant, at the same time as he introduces legislation for junior Ministers?
§ The Prime MinisterI should not like to be committed beyond what I have said, which really does not commit me at all.