HC Deb 03 February 1969 vol 777 cc25-6W
Mr. Biffen

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity (1) what has been the average earnings of outside steel erectors for 1966, 1967, and 1968, respectively; what has been the annual percentage change in productivity of these workers; and what measurements are used to calculate such changes in productivity;

(2) what is the percentage increase in the minimum earnings level of outside steel erectors recently agreed between the employers' federations and relevant unions; and whether such an increase is consistent with the incomes policy;

(3) what is the expected percentage increase in earnings expected to derive from the combined effect of the increase in hourly rates and alteration of the minimum earnings level for outside steel erectors announced in mid-December; and whether such an increase conforms with the incomes policy.

Mr. Harold Walker

Under the terms of the relevant agreement the rates of wages of outside steel erectors rise or fall nationally with those of workers in the general engineering industry, where there was a general increase of 6s. per week and an increase of 36s. 4d. per week in the minimum earnings level from 16th December, 1968, which was consolidated in the minimum time rate from 20th January, 1969. Under the terms of the agreement those whose earnings are equal to or above the new minimum rates are not entitled to any increase to maintain differentials. I am satisfied that the general effect for this group of workers is not dissimilar from the effect of the main engineering agreement. The other information requested is not available.