HC Deb 21 November 1968 vol 773 cc313-4W
59. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of his agreement and acceptance of the salary increase to policemen, he will now agree to the £2 per week undermanning allowance for London's firemen or an increase on the same basis as that in operation for the police.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

Rates of fire service pay in England and Wales are negotiated by the National Joint Council for Local Authorities' Fire Brigades, which then makes recommendations to fire authorities. Under the arrangements for giving the Government early warning of claims and proposals to increase pay, the Home Office is informed of any pay claim received by the National Joint Council. My right hon. Friend has received no formal notification of any proposal to pay an undermanning allowance to members of the London Fire Brigade. Should such a proposal be received it will be considered in the light of incomes policy.