§ 79. Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that an increase of just less than 6 per cent. in the pay of draughtsmen employed by Swan Hunter took effect from 1st July; what is now the expected weekly rates and earnings of these draughtsmen; and how the settlement is related to either the considerations of lower-paid workers or increased productivity as indicated by the Government's prices and incomes policy.
§ Mr. HattersleyI am aware of the increase which was implemented from 1st July. Weekly rates will range from £15 17s. 0d.—at age 21 to £23 19s. 0d.—at age 30 and over. Earnings will be higher in some cases because of merit and qualification payments. The settlement is not related to either the considerations of the lower-paid workers or increased productivity.