§ 14. Mr. Bradfordasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement about the discussion with the Department of Manpower Services regarding the requested increase in wages for statutory and voluntary playgroup personnel in Northern Ireland.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr. Ray Carter)Negotiations for the introduction of a common salary structure for pre-school playgroup staff were initiated in 1974 following the rationalisation of former local authority staff in Northern Ireland. Detailed proposals were under consideration in July last year, but agreement on their implementation had not been reached when the present phase of incomes policy was introduced on 11th July 1975. I regret therefore, that there is no scope for pay increases for this group beyond the £6 a week which they received with effect from 1st July 1976.
§ Mr. BradfordWhilst the playgroup personnel would want me to thank the Minister and his colleagues for their courtesy in receiving the deputation, that answer will be a great source of disappointment to them. Will he undertake to remunerate this section of personnel, which is making a great contribution to child care in Northern Ireland, as soon as the present phase of the pay policy ceases?
§ Mr. CarterMy Department is not at all unsympathetic in this matter, but the hon. Member will appreciate that this group is subject to the current economic 865 policy and therefore I cannot give the undertaking that he seeks.