HC Deb 12 March 1981 vol 1000 cc382-3W
29. Mr. Rippon

asked the Minister for the Civil Service whether she will take steps to ensure that appropriate deductions in pay are made in the case of all civil servants when on strike.

Mr. Hayhoe

Civil servants who take strike action do not receive any pay or allowances related to pay. This rule is applied strictly by all Departments on the basis of instructions issued by my Department.

Mr. Rippon

asked the Minister for the Civil Service whether she will estimate and publish the cost of any strike by civil servants.

Mr. Hayhoe

Some strikes by civil servants can affect both payments and receipts by Government Departments, but the net effect will vary from day to day. It is not practicable generally to determine net costs for every strike particularly for those of a limited duration.

Mr. Rippon

asked the Minister for the Civil Service whether she will take account of the cost to public funds of strikes by civil servants when negotiating the pay of such civil servants.

Mr. Hayhoe

Strike action by civil servants does not necessarily result in a net cost to public funds, but I will bear my right hon. and learned Friend's proposal in mind.

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