§ 25. Mr. Alisonasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity whether increases in average wage rates in all industries and services during 1968 were contained within the guidelines set by the Govenment's prices and incomes policy.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerYes, bearing in in mind that certain long-term commitments, dating from before the prices and incomes standstill, were implemented during the year.
§ Mr. AlisonHow can the Under-Secretary conceivably come to the House and say that average increases of 7 and over 7 per cent. in hourly wage rates for all industries and services between December, 1967, and December, 1968, are still within the criteria of prices and incomes policy?
§ Mr. WalkerI should draw to the hon. Member's attention the fact that the period for which he has asked for figures is not strictly comparable with the present phase of policy, which did not start until March.