HC Deb 04 December 1969 vol 792 cc1680-1
10. Mr. Dance

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity what percentage increase was involved in the settlement of the British Leyland clerical staff wage claim; and on what grounds it was approved by her Department.

Mr. Harold Walker

I understand that the settlement to which the Question relates is that between the Austin-Morris Division of the British Leyland Motor Corporation and the Clerical and Administrative Workers Union, which was effective from 9th June, 1969, and involved an average increase of 9.9 per cent. for clerical staff. It was not opposed by my Department because of the direct contribution by clerical staff towards increasing efficiency and the further productivity measures included in the agreement.

Mr. Dance

What productivity guarantees did the Government get out of this settlement?

Mr. Walker

The productivity guarantees in the agreement, which satisfied the Department.

Mr. Roy Hughes

Can my hon. Friend say whether the Department also took into consideration the fact that this section has always been an under-privileged section of the motor industry and that, in this sense, the increase was well justified?

Mr. Walker

The increase was justified because of the measures included in the agreement leading to increased efficiency and further productivity.