HC Deb 24 February 1969 vol 778 c1072
48. Mr. Speed

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity on what grounds she now decides that exceptions to the ceiling of 3½ per cent. on wage increases are allowed.

Mr. Harold Walker

On the grounds laid down in the White Paper on Productivity, Prices and Incomes Policy in 1968 and 1969.

Mr. Speed

Would the Minister not agree that the ceiling of 3½ per cent. for lower-paid workers is quite inadequate?

Mr. Walker

This question has been dealt with time and time again, and we have pointed out that one of the criteria set out in paragraph 34 provides for increases for up to 3½ per cent. for lower-paid workers, and it is the Government's policy that within the framework of an overall settlement the ceiling of 3½ per cent. may be exceeded for lower-paid workers if higher-paid workers will accept less than 3½ per cent.