§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Labour what is the number affected by the recent Wages Regulation (Dressmaking and Women's Light Clothing) 177W (England and Wales) Order, 1966; and what is the estimated range of increase in hourly rates and earnings arising therefrom.
§ Mrs. Shirley WilliamsWe have no information about the exact number affected by this Order, but the number of workers coming within the field of operation of the Wages Council concerned is estimated at about 140,000. The Order, which was made on 14th July, 1966, provided for increases in the weekly minimum rates ranging from 5s. 4d. to 10s. 6d. for men and from 4s. 3d. to 7s. 5d. for women, according to age, skill and area of employment for a normal working week of 40 hours.
No information is available about the effect on earnings.