HC Deb 27 October 1988 vol 139 c360W
59. Mr. McLoughlin

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the contribution to falling unemployment of 1 per cent. off the annual increase in average earnings.

122. Mrs. Peacock

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the contribution to falling unemployment of 1 per cent. off the annual increase in average earnings.

Mr. Major

A decrease in the level of pay settlements which brought them more closely into line with increases in productivity would have an important effect in reducing unemployment. This is now on a firm downward trend, and greater wage restraint would help to keep it there.