§ Sir John Langford-Holtasked the Minister for the Civil Service what has been the percentage increase over last year of the award made to civil servants; and how this compares with the award made to nurses.
§ Mr. Charles R. MorrisAn offer of 7 per cent. with effect from 1 April 1979 has been made to Civil Service trade unions, with the remainder of the increases negotiated on the pay research evidence to be paid from 1 April 1980. I understand that an offer of 9 per cent. with effect from 1 April 1979 has been made to nurses, plus £1 a week "on account" for nurses working 35 or more hours per week to be deducted from any increase recommended by the Standing Commission on Pay Comparability, which is to be paid in two equal stages134W from 1 August 1979 and 1 April 1980. I understand that a further meeting is being held with nurses' representatives today. The Government stand ready to continue negotiations with the Civil Service unions at any time.