§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Labour what is the estimated percentage increase in rates and earnings that would arise from the full implementation of the 507W national claim recently submitted in the engineering industry; and if he will make a statement on the claim so that the Government's policy may be known and considered by the negotiators.
§ Mr. Fernyhough:As this claim is for improvements in conditions of employment and an unspecified substantial increase in pay it is not possible to estimate the effects on rates and earnings precisely. The Government would look to both parties to keep the requirements of the productivity, prices and incomes policy firmly in mind and to give full consideration to the recommendations in Report No. 49 of the National Board for Prices and Incomes.