§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Employment in respect of what type of contract, and in how many cases, contractors other than construction contractors have been asked to attend his Department or one of its regional offices to explain why they breached the £6 pay limit, following the Chief Secretary's reply of 8th June; whether they were permitted to be represented by counsel, solicitor or officials of their trade association; whether any independent observers other than civil servants were present to ensure that natural justice was done during these hearings; and whether in all cases such contractors were present to hear an oral reasoned statement of his Department's decision in the matter, followed by written confirmation in sufficient detail to allow such a contractor to challenge the decision in court, if necessary.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerOfficials of my Department have had discussions about breaches of the pay limits with three companies known to have supply contracts with Government Departments. Discussions took place on a free and informal basis, with no restrictions on representation. All three companies accepted the Department's views, which were explained orally and in writing, and modified the pay settlements in question to conform with the pay limits.