§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity what is the estimated percentage rise in the rates, earnings and productivity deriving from the recent 6s. a week increase paid to boilermakers, blacksmiths and shipwrights employed by Swan, Hunter; what percentage pay increase has been made to these men in the last year; and if the new award is consistent with the Government's incomes policy.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerIt is estimated that as a result of the 6s. a week increase rates will rise by 1.3 per cent. and earnings by about 1.2 per cent. The increase conforms with the national agreement, effective from 16th December 1968, between the Shipbuilders and Repairers National Association and the Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions which was consistent with the Government's incomes policy. A productivity scheme was introduced in November, 1968, for these workers which gave a 4.2 per cent. increase plus an incentive bonus related to performance.