HC Deb 11 December 1962 vol 669 c193
13. Mr. Longden

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what has been the percentage increase in wages paid in the Colony of Hong Kong since 1957.

Mr. Fisher

Information is not available for a direct comparison with wages in 1957 owing to changes in the basis of statistics. It is, however, possible to say that during 1960 wages generally increased by about 15 per cent.

Mr. Longden

May I again ask my hon. Friend to do his best to ensure that these increases in the living standard—increased in spite of the steady flow of refugees—are not imperilled in the Brussels negotiations?

Mr. Fisher

We shall do our best, of course. I should further point out that the retail price index has been steady throughout 1960, the year to which I referred, and that therefore the wage increases represent a real improvement in the general standard of living.

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