§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Employment if it is his policy to ensure that the provisions of the Equal Pay Act, 1970, will be carried into effect as anticipated by 1975 regardless of economic and other considerations; and if he is satisfied with the progress made towards that objective.
§ Mr. John FraserMy right hon. Friend has every intention that the provisions of the Equal Pay Act 1970 should be fully implemented when it comes into operation on 29th December 1975.
The information available to my Department suggests that a good deal of progress is being made towards implementation, but that there are some areas where it is not satisfactory. My right hon. Friend is therefore considering what more can be done to bring to the attention of employers and trade unions the need to press forward in good time before the Act comes into force.