HC Deb 13 May 1968 vol 764 c858
39. Sir Knox Cunningham

asked the Lord Privy Seal what steps he intends to take before the Summer Recess to improve pay conditions for the staff of the Refreshment Department of the House of Commons; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maxwell

I have been asked to reply.

A 10 per cent. wage increase was awarded last autumn, and the wage structure of the Department is under review.

Sir Knox Cunningham

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that wage increases in excess of 3½ per cent. have been granted? Will he look after the House's own employees and stand up to the Government on their behalf?

Mr. Maxwell

I am obliged to the hon. and learned Gentleman for his consideration for the staff. However, all right hon. and hon. Members are as concerned as he is about them and I assure the House that the Catering Sub-Committee has this matter very much in mind.

Mr. William Hamilton

Does not my hon. Friend agree that the pay conditions of the staff could be improved if the dining facilities of the House were open to the public during the Summer Recess? Will that be done this summer?

Mr. Maxwell

The pay conditions of the staff can and will be in due course further improved. We have the question of dining facilities being open to the public under consideration, but I cannot hold out hope that such a proposal will meet the approval of the Services Committee.