§ Q9. Mr. Meadowcroftasked the Prime Minister if she will list her official engagements for Tuesday 18 March.
§ The Prime MinisterI refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply that I gave some moments ago.
§ Mr. MeadowcroftDoes the Prime Minister accept that the growing differential between pay for those in work, who have increased their rates beyond the rate of inflation, and those out of work is an embittering factor in our society? Will the Government's post-Budget policies narrow that differential and reduce the bitterness?
§ The Prime MinisterThe hon. Gentleman is correct in saying that most people in work have had substantial pay increases and increases in net take-home pay. How much those out of work get depends on their particular circumstances and social security benefits. In some cases it is necessary to widen the gap between what they receive in social security benefits and what they receive in work.
§ Mr. GryllsIs my right hon. Friend aware that most people will applaud the Government's decision to allow Vickers Shipbuilders to be returned to the private sector by means of a management buy-out? Will she assure the 163 House that the Government will give careful consideration to the proposed management buy-out from Land Rover group, which has blue chip financial backing, and will allow the company and the people who work in it to enjoy the future success of Land Rover?
§ The Prime MinisterMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry is giving close consideration to all the bids for parts of British Leyland, and will make a statement when he is in a position to do so, but that is not yet.
§ Mr. WigleyWill the Prime Minister find time today to take to heart the anger of the leaders of disablement organisations at the intention of the Government to emasculate the Disabled Persons (Services, Consultation and Representation) Bill, which provides for those most in need, the carers who look after disabled people? Will the Government reconsider their position?
§ The Prime MinisterAs hon. Members will know, the Government's position is to try to secure a Bill that is workable and that will continue to be so. I must also point out that the record of this Government on providing increased help for the disabled is outstanding, and greatly exceeds that of any previous Government.
§ Q10. Mr. Martinasked the Prime Minister if she will list her official engagements for Tuesday 18 March.
§ The Prime MinisterI refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply that I gave some moments ago.
§ Mr. MartinIs it not madness that British Rail is closing railway workshops at a time when our railway engineering stock needs modernising? Will the right hon. Lady intervene in this matter?
§ The Prime MinisterAs the hon. Gentleman is aware, some of the new rolling stock requires much less maintenance and redesigning than the old, and we are not able to keep workshops open unless there is work for them to do.