HC Deb 20 March 1967 vol 743 cc1047-8
26. Mr. Braine

asked the Minister of Health what stage has now been reached in the negotiations concerning the remuneration of public health medical officers; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. K. Robinson

A general salary claim is being considered by the Management Side of the Whitley Council.

Mr. Braine

Is the Minister aware that public health medical officers consider the attitude of the Management Side of the Whitley Council to be quite disgraceful, since there was a commitment before 20th July last? Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that there is a commitment to review the pay of these doctors independent of the review of other local authority officers?

Mr. Robinson

No, Sir; I do not accept that there is any evidence of a commitment as to the operative date of the increase claimed, but I have no doubt that the Management Side will wish to resume consideration of the claim in the light of the further guidance, which, as the House knows, the Government will make known before Easter on prices and incomes policy generally.