§ 49. Sir Douglas Hackingasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered the publication, a copy of which has been sent to him, entitled "Work, the future of British Industry," issued by the Conservative party sub-committee, on reconstruction; and whether, in view of the recommendation contained therein regarding equal pay for men and women doing equal work, he will now move to set up a Select Committee to make full inquiries with a view to the adoption of this principle within the Civil Service.
§ Sir J. AndersonYes, Sir. I have read the publication in question, but am afraid I cannot depart from the statement I made in reply to my right hon. Friend on 23rd November.
§ Mr. W. J. BrownIs the Minister aware that the majority of Members in this House favour the immediate application of the principle of equal payment; and if he is not prepared to act upon it will he give the House an opportunity of debating the question?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe last part of the supplementary question is clearly not a matter for me, but there are ways in which the opinion of the House can be tested. I believe that it has not hitherto been considered reasonable to expect the Government to take the lead in this matter.