HC Deb 14 July 1971 vol 821 cc98-9W
44. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister for the Civil Service if he will now make a statement on the salary award to Government scientific civil servants and others who work in Government science establishments.

45. Mr. Neave

asked the Minister for the Civil Service whether he will make a statement on the recent negotiations on the pay of the scientific classes in the Civil Service and scientists employed by other public bodies whose pay is linked to theirs.

Mr. David Howell

The Government's proposals for the pay of the Scientific grades in the Civil Service with effect from 1st January, 1971 are based on evidence from the independent Pay Research Unit. They represent confirmation of existing pay for the majority of the senior and intermediate grades and increases ranging from some 9–12 per cent. for the recruitment grades. Agreement with the Staff Association concerned has not been possible on this basis and the dispute is being referred under the agreed procedure to the Civil Service Arbitration Tribunal. The pay of other scientific staff at equivalent levels is linked to that of the Scientific Civil Service and will also await the outcome of the arbitration hearing.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister for the Civil Service how many letters he has received from Government scientists, dissatisfied with the progress of their salary negotiations.

Mr. David Howell

152 letters up to and including Tuesday, 13th July, but there have been a number of other representations.