HC Deb 24 March 1977 vol 928 cc649-50W
Mr. Lawson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress he has made with the talks, announced in the course of his statement of 15th December 1976 on the Government's economic measures, with the TUC and other interested bodies concerning the interrelationships between changes in earnings, social security benefits, pensions and rates of direct and indirect taxation (Official Report, c. 1533); and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Healey

, pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 23rd March 1977; Vol. 928, c. 585–6], gave the following information:

We have held initial discussions covering a wide range of issues. Talks will be resumed after the Budget.

Mr. Brotherton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether payments of up to £100 to council workers in Rotherham as disturbance allowances are within the terms of the current incomes policy.

Mr. Horam

I have been asked to reply.

I assume the hon. Member is referring to employees of the South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive who, of course, are not council workers. The executive has, I understand, relocation agreements with its employees, of which this payment is only one aspect. Agreements to enhance job security are allowable outside the pay limits.