§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Prime Minister if, in view of the advantage to business and industry of changing payments including wages from a weekly to a monthly basis, she will initiate discussions with the Trades Union Congress and the Confederation of British Industry on the type of payments for which monthly payments are desirable; and if she will take steps to encourage progress in this matter.
§ The Prime MinisterAs my right hon. and learned Friend the Chief Secretary to the Treasury said on 6 May—[c.58–9]—the Government believe that there is a number of advantages in employees receiving their pay monthly or fortnightly rather than weekly. The Central Policy Review Staff have prepared a discussion document on the case for employees to receive their pay on a monthly or fortnightly basis and also through a bank account rather than in cash. This is to be published soon. The Government will invite interested parties, including the Confederation of British Industry and the Trade Union Congress, to comment on all aspects of the document.