HC Deb 11 October 1976 vol 917 cc41-2W
Mr. Rooker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he is taking to ensure that the police are given the opportunity to negotiate a pay increase under the £6 limit.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

The White Paper on the second phase of counter-inflation policy (Cmnd. 6507) makes clear that all settlements must be in accordance with pay policy as it applies on the due date, and that there are no transitional provisions. It follows that the pay limit for the police must be 5 per cent., with a maximum of £4 and a minimum of £2.50 a week.

Mr. Rooker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce legislation enabling the Police Federation to use the ACAS in pursuing disputes concerning pay and conditions.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

No. The Police Arbitration Tribunal set up under the Police Act of 1969 is available to consider disputes on these matters.