§ 38. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the basic wage receivable by workers at Portland navy base; what representations have recently been received by him; what demonstrations took place in Portland in August; and if he will make a statement.
Dr. OwenNegotiations on new pay rates for the Industrial Civil Service were already in progress when a partial stoppage of work took place in Portland Naval Base on 15th August. New rates have since been agreed with the trade unions. They range from f13 10s. 0d. for a 40 hour week for unskilled labourers to £20 16s. 0d., for craftsmen grade I.
§ Mr. KingIn this year is not £13 10s. as minimum take-home pay an outrageous wage to offer? Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that these steady and reliable men have a genuine grievance? Is there any reason why the Government should be the worst employer in the area?
Dr. OwenI do not believe the Government are the worst employer. These new rates have been agreed by the trade unions, and there is the prospect of productivity negotiations which are now pending.