HC Deb 25 February 1972 vol 831 cc375-6W
Mr. Mason

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what fresh consideration he is giving to incomes policy for both the public and private sector of industry, based on the priority of agreed and understood special cases.

Mr. Bryan

The Government's policy is to achieve a progressive reduction in the general level of pay settlements in both the public and private sectors as the essential condition for greater price stability and economic growth. This does not rule out consideration of factors peculiar to particular cases, but the overriding need is to ensure moderation in pay settlements in the interests of the whole community. As regards an agreed policy the Government have made clear that they would welcome constructive proposals for an effective voluntary policy, and employers and unions are well aware of this.