§ 43. Mr. Collinsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that, since 1948, the percentage share of the national income per worker accruing to industrial workers has fallen by nearly 10 per cent. whilst, over the same period, the share of salary earners, directly comparable to wage earners, including managers, shows a substantial percentage increase; and if, in view of the importance of increased production, he will lay stress on this fact in all official discussions with outside bodies which bear upon the relationship between wages and productivity.
§ Mr. PowellNo, Sir; in manufacturing industry between 1948 and 1956 wages per head increased much more than salaries per head.
§ Mr. CollinsIs the hon. Member aware that the figures quoted and many of the words used in the Question were used by his right hon. Friend in reply to me two weeks ago, and, therefore, any inaccuracies are his and not mine? in any case, will he say whether he accepts and will try to implement the policy that when wage earners increase productivity they are entitled to share both actually and relatively in the increase in national wealth?
§ Mr. PowellThe hon. Member is mistaken in his recollection. The allegation was in the hon. Member's supplementary question and not in my right hon. Friend's reply. The figures show that the wage earners have shared in the increased production over those years.