§ 23. Mr. Longdenasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is yet able to publish the Government's proposals in the matter of the salaries of university teachers.
§ Sir E. BoyleI would refer my hon. Friend to previous replies on this matter to which I have at present nothing to add.
§ Mr. LongdenI am sure my hon. Friend will realise that that is a very disappointing reply. Is he aware that a long time has now elapsed since a statement was first promised? May I ask, first, whether he would not agree that as soon as the pay pause permits, a major adjustment of these salaries is necessary so that the top rewards in the profession are more comparable to the top rewards in comparable professions? Secondly, will he say whether backdating will apply either initially or as a principle, and, thirdly, whether some kind of negotiating machinery comparable to Burnham can now be introduced?
§ Sir E. BoyleI cannot anticipate any announcement, but I can assure my hon. Friend that my right hon. and learned Friend is well aware of the need for an early announcement on this subject. Regarding the last part of the supplementary question, my information is that the arrangements, given the special circumstances of academic employment, are generally acceptable.
§ Mr. CallaghanWhat about backdating?
§ Sir E. BoyleI cannot answer any further.