§ 61. Mr. Higginsasked the Minister of Labour if, when intervening in wage negotiations in the nationalised industries, he will take steps to encourage the establishment of full regional wage differentials.
§ Mr. Ernest ThorntonNo, Sir. I am only called upon to intervene when there is a dispute and I do not regard it as part of my function on those occasions to urge changes in wage structure on the nationalised industries.
§ Mr. HigginsWould the hon. Gentleman not agree that unless the Minister takes this kind of action we are likely to have an increase in inflationary disputes in areas where earnings are above the national average in similar occupations?
§ Mr. ThorntonI would not agree with that statement. It is a very complicated issue. I know the hon. Gentleman's deep interest in it, but I am afraid we could not argue it by supplementary question and answer.