§ 36. Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Paymaster General what is the Government's best estimate of the number of jobs likely to be created for young people as a result of the Wages Bill.
§ Mr. TrippierThere is clear evidence in studies both in the United Kingdom and internationally of the link between pay and jobs, especially for the young. There are several studies on the employment effects of the wages council system, all of which contain evidence that the councils inhibit employment. I am not aware of any studies which estimate the number of jobs which will arise from the specific reforms which we have proposed and attempts to quantify the job gains are not likely to be fruitful. However, the removal of statutory minima which prevent employers offering jobs at rates which young people would accept must result in increased employment.