HC Deb 11 June 1990 vol 174 cc17-8
99. Mr. Harry Barnes

To ask the Minister for the Civil Service when he last met representatives of the civil service unions; and what subjects were discussed.

Mr. Luce

I refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply that I gave earlier to the hon. Member for Bolsover (Mr. Skinner).

Mr. Barnes

Has low pay for support grades 1 and 2, such as drivers and messengers, been discussed? Why is their pay lower than the equivalent in most European countries, including Italy, Belgium and Spain? What will happen in 1992 with the single market? Will their pay rise to the level of that in Denmark or fall to the level of that in Greece?

Mr. Luce

Questions of pay in the civil service are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The pay of support grades has improved substantially during the past two years, especially for special groups. Indeed, for one group an offer has been made of a 22 per cent. increase. The overall position of support grades is now improving.