§ 28. Dr. Summerskillasked the Secretary of State for Defence why women in the British Armed Forces are paid only 85 to 88 per cent. of the basic pay 458 rates for men of equivalent rank and trade.
§ Mr. J. P. W. MallalieuBecause, in general, Service women are not expected to share the same hazards and obligations as Service men. However, women medical and dental officers do receive the same rates as men, because their full duties are broadly comparable.
§ Dr. SummerskillWould my hon. Friend bear in mind that in the N.A.T.O. countries of America, Canada, Holland and France women in the Armed Forces are paid the same as men of equivalent rank and trade doing the same work and with the same hazards? Can he justify the exploitation of British women?
§ Mr. MallalieuThe point is the rate for the same job. No women are being exploited in the Services.