§ Mr. Russell Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is aware that persistent unemployment is increasing the difficulties of the low-paid in attempts to increase their earnings; and whether he will introduce legislation for a statutory minimum earnings level for all able-bodied workers.
§ Mr. BryanThere is no evidence to suggest that the relative position of the low-paid has deteriorated in recent years; but it is clear that a major cause of high unemployment has been excessive wage increases, and attempts to provide for even larger pay increases for certain groups could, in present circumstances, make the unemployment situation more difficult for those groups. My right hon. Friend has no present plans to introduce legislation for a national minimum wage.