HC Deb 10 April 1967 vol 744 cc739-40
51. Mr. Higgins

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has reached a decision on the National Board for Prices and Incomes' report No. 27 as to whether or not to forbid the increase in pay recommended by the Drapery Wages Council.

Mr. Hattersley

My right hon. Friend hopes to complete his examination of these questions and to announce his decision on the retail drapery proposals very shortly.

Mr. Higgins

What criteria are used in deciding whether or not to accept recommendations of the Board?

Mr. Hattersley

The criteria of the Government's prices and incomes policy.

Mr. R. Carr

Will the hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that his right hon. Friend will make a statement to the House about this subject when he has made his decision? Does the hon. Gentleman realise that this raises very serious considerations about the constitutional position of the wages councils?

Mr. Hattersley

The hon. Gentleman will recall that the obligation is to notify the parties, but I will make sure the House is notified simultaneously.