§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Lord President of the Council, in the light of the increase in average earnings in February 1977 by 11.4 per cent. against the 16.2 per cent. increase in prices during the same period, whether any increase was made in the salaries of hon. Members during this period; and how much the purchasing value has fallen since the last adjustment in the basic rate.
§ Mr. FootI assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the annual increases in earnings and prices between February 1976 and February 1977. During that period, hon. Members' salaries were increased by £312 per annum subject to their total earnings not exceeding £8,500. This represented a 5.4 per cent. increase. Since June 1976 when Members' salaries were last increased, their purchasing value has fallen by 11.6 per cent. up to mid-February 1977.