§ Mr. John Mooreasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the standard procedure that is followed in notifying the removal from the black list of companies 66W which have satisfied the Minister that they are no longer in breach of his pay policy.
§ Mr. Joel BarnettA firm which brings its wage settlements within the Government's pay limits is informed that discretionary action will cease. Those bodies responsible for the placing of public contracts and the consideration of Government assistance are informed accordingly.
§ Mr. Richard Wainwrightasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he intends to use his discretionary powers to withhold or cancel Government contracts or aid, against firms committed to legally enforceable agreements on wages which exceed the pay guidelines.
§ Mr. Joel BarnettThe existence of legally enforceable agreements is in itself no bar to the withholding of Government contracts or aid. Whether a breach of pay policy will lead to a decision being taken to cancel contracts or aid will depend upon the circumstances of each case.
§ Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether an approach has been made by the Government to every firm on the black list for Government contracts asking whether they consent to the publication of their names; and what arrangements have been made for the publication of the names of the firms who consent.
§ Mr. Joel BarnettLetters have been sent to those firms subject to discretionary action whose names have not previously been published by the Government. The names of those firms who consent will be published in "Trade and Industry", copies of which are available in the Library.