HC Deb 14 May 1968 vol 764 cc1022-3
21. Mr. Alldritt

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when equal pay will be applied to Government industrial establishments.

Mr. Harold Lever

As soon as economic circumstances permit.

Mr. Alldritt

Would not my hon. Friend agree that the Government should give a lead in this matter, particularly having regard to their anxiety to enter the E.E.C., which will have implemented this principle by 1971?

Mr. Lever

I cannot set a date for this. I can only say that I sympathise with my hon. Friend's viewpoint. This cannot be regarded as an approximate prospect but rather as a future attraction which will take place. The Government will certainly give a lead as soon as economic circumstances permit.

Dr. Summerskill

Will my hon. Friend say whether equal pay will be introduced for these women before the next General Election?

Mr. Lever

I cannot make a prediction of that kind. I do not even know when the General Election is likely to be.