14. Mr. Aldrittsasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity to what extent the Government's prices and incomes policy has improved the position of the low paid worker; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerSince the inception of the policy in April, 1965, there has been an improvement in the relative position of workers in a substantial number of industries with below average earnings. Although the policy includes special provision for low paid workers, consideration of their claims rests in the first instance with those responsible for their wage negotiations.
§ 49. Mr. James Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity how many industries have 15 per cent. of their workers earning less than £15 per week.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerI regret that up-to-date figures showing the distribution of earnings in different industries are not at present available. The new earnings survey recently undertaken by my Department has been designed to provide information of this kind.