§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity if she is now satisfied that the pay offer made by Perkins Engines Limited to its 6,500 manual employees is consistent with the Government's incomes policy; and what is the estimated percentage increase in productivity likely to arise from this settlement.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerDiscussions are continuing between the company and the unions and the company has promised to notify details of any settlement to my Department under incomes policy early warning arrangements. As a final settlement has not been reached I cannot say what would be its effect on productivity or whether it is consistent with the Government's prices and incomes policy.