§ 18. Viscount SANDONasked the Minister of Labour whether the Government are now prepared to undertake the promised readjustment of the basis on which the cost-of-living figure is calculated; and whether an investigation to this end is now proceeding?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDI am anxious that the basis of the cost-of-living figure should be revised as soon as circumstances warrant. There are, however, a number of considerations against immediate revision, and further, on consultation with the National Confederation of Employers' Organisations and the Trade Union Congress General Council, I find that they are both of opinion that the present moment is inopportune. I have decided, in all the circumstances, to postpone further consideration of the matter to a later date.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this cost-of living figure affects naval and military pay as well as workmen's wages, and that it is based on a set of items which are quite inappropriate to naval pay, which has just been reduced; and can he not have a special cost-of-living figure for this purpose?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDI do not think it is possible.
Mr. HOPKINSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that any re-adjustment of the basis will make all the figures perfectly useless for the purpose?
Captain ARTHUR EVANSDoes my right hon. Friend also consult the Admiralty when he consults the Trade Union Congress?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDConsultation has taken place with nearly all Departments and other bodies who were concerned in the matter.