§ 18. Mr. HANNONasked the Minister of Labour how many persons in this country have their wages regulated in accordance with a sliding scale dependent on the cost of living; and whether it is contemplated making any provision whereby the workpeople so affected will be enabled to enjoy the advantages of the reduced taxation under the present year's Budget?
§ Mr. SHAWThe number of persons covered by agreements at present in operation between employers and work-people providing for the adjustment of wages with reference to variations in the official cost-of-living index number, is estimated to be between 2£ and 3 millions. As regards the latter part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply, a copy of which I am sending to him, given on 20th May to a similar question by the hon. Member for the Hexham Division (Mr. Finney).