HC Deb 19 February 1962 vol 654 c13
27. Sir Richard Pilkington

asked the Minister of Power the percentage increase represented by the wage award now proposed for the miners.

Mr. Wood

Only a part of the labour force is directly affected by the offer. Other claims have to be reckoned with. The combined effect of these factors may increase the wages bill of the industry by about 2½ per cent.

Sir Richard Pilkington

Will my right hon. Friend explain why the Press said that the figure would be 4 per cent., thus detracting from the value of the pay pause to the nation as a whole?

Mr. Speaker

The Minister is responsible for many things, but not for what the Press says.

Sir Richard Pilkington

On a point of order. Surely, what the Press said must have emanated originally from the Minister's office.

Mr. Speaker

Unless the Minister is accepting responsibility for the statement, he cannot be asked about it.