HC Deb 08 May 1951 vol 487 c1759
57. Mr. Ralph Morley

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he proposes to apply the principle of equal pay to women civil servants.

Mr. Gaitskell

When acceptance of the broad principle of equal pay for men and women in the Civil Service was first announced, it was made plain that it could not be carried out until the general economic situation permitted. As the House is aware, I am now examining the position again in the light of representations made to me by the staff side of the National Whitley Council.

Mr. Morley

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that the increase in Income Tax for single women, without a compensating abatement as in the case of married men, is an added reason for giving them equal pay?

Mr. Gaitskell

I should not like to give an answer on that point.