HC Deb 30 October 1975 vol 898 c603W
Mr. George Rodgers

asked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection to what extent the fees charged by consultants, quantity surveyors, etc., which are assessed on a proportionate basis of the cost of a project are subject to the current policy of restrictions on wage and salary increases.

Mr. Maclennan

Fees charged by professional firms or individuals who are self-employed are subject to the controls contained in paragraphs 123 and 126 inclusive of the Price Code. Increases in fees, including scales of fees of general application, are permitted only to reflect increases in allowable costs. Allowable costs in this context do not include any element in respect of proprietors' or partners' time. Net profit margin control also applies to self-employed persons offering professional or other services. An exemption from control for cases where disbursements or expenses did not exceed 10 per cent. of profits—formerly in paragraph 123 of the Price Code—has been withdrawn in connection with the present counter-inflation policy by virtue of the Counter-Inflation (Price Code) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 1975 (S.I. 1975 No. 1293).

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