§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Prime Minister whether, when next meeting Sir Michael Edwardes of BL, she will request him to forgo his recent increase in salary or to accept only 4 per cent. to assist the Government's policy of reducing excessive wage and salary awards.
§ The Prime MinisterSir Michael Edwardes' recent increase in salary was determined by the board of BL. Any suggestion that Sir Michael should forgo any element of his remuneration is therefore a matter for him and for the board of BL. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry has already informed the House in a written reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, Northfield (Mr. Cadbury)—[Vol. 10, c. 125–26]—the cost to BL of Sir Michael Edwardes' remuneration will have increased at an annual rate of 5.1 per cent. compound over the five-year period of his service, excluding early retirement arrangements.