HC Deb 25 April 1968 vol 763 cc472-3
29. Mr. Brooks

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is satisfied that the fees for appearances and performances on radio and television meet the criteria of the Government's incomes policy; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mason

Both the B.B.C. and the independent television companies invariably clear incomes policy aspects with the Department of Employment and Productivity when conducting negotiations about general rates of fees. It is difficult to set standards for fees for individual performances because circumstances vary so much, but the Government have made it clear that the call for substantial restraint over the next two years is intended to apply to all incomes.

Mr. Brooks

Dealing with the particular cases, is my right hon. Friend not aware that excessively large fees appear to be paid to those whose notoriety is more impressive than their talent? In view of this, are the Government not accepting that their policy is not applicable to such star performers?

Mr. Mason

They do appear to be highly paid and are no doubt highly taxed, although that is not necessarily the answer. If my hon. Friend has individual cases in mind and will put them to me, we have the right to put them to the Prices and Incomes Board.

Dr. Winstanley

Would the right hon. Gentleman agree that, if there is a case for a reduction in the high fees earned by some performers, there is also a case for an increase in the low fees earned by others?

Mr. Mason

This is not necessarily a question for me, but if hon. Members have individual cases, we will see whether they get referred to the N.B.P.I.