HC Deb 05 March 1985 vol 74 c771
16. Mr. James Lamond

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he has any plans to reduce the number of wages inspectors in post.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

No, Sir.

Mr. Lamond

Has the Minister noticed that hon. Members behind him who are quickest to respond when their own interests are affected by Government action are the first to call for the abolition of the wages councils and the removal of protection from the lowest-paid members of our society? Does the Minister feel ashamed to be spearheading a Government whose proposals are to do just that? Is there any compassion at all left in his Department?

Mr. Bottomley

Except for the hon. Gentleman's last question, the answer is no.