§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Labour what is the number affected by the recent Wages Regulation (Hair, Bass and Fibre) 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 500. The Order, which was made on 14th July, 1966, provide for increases in the hourly minimum rates ranging from 3d. to 9¾d. for men and from 3¼d. to 6d. for women according to age, experience and occupation.
No information is available about the effect on earnings, but the two sides of the Council agreed to circulate to their members a joint declaration to the effect that there should be no increases in the rates actually paid where the new rates were already operative.