HC Deb 09 December 1957 vol 579 cc895-6
37. Dr. King

asked the Minister of Health what is the percentage increase in wages and salaries paid to local government workers since 1948.

Mr. Walker-Smith

This is not a matter for which I have responsibility.

Dr. King

Is the Minister aware that, if he could obtain those figures, they would show that the local government service worker and the Civil Service worker have had wage increases which compare very favourably with the 34 per cent. wage increase of the National Health Service worker? Will he not undo the wrong he has done to this group of loyal men by reconsidering his decision not to apply the Whitley Council award?

Mr. Walker-Smith

If that is the matter which the hon. Gentleman has in mind, I would remind him that I have answered several questions in the House about it. This particular Question does not, in fact, raise that point.

Mr. H. Hynd

On a point of order. The Minister has said that this is a question for which he is not responsible. Ought he not to have transferred it to the Minister who is responsible?

Mr. Speaker

That is a matter for the Minister. It is not a point of order.