§ Mr. Terlezkiasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will estimate by how much employment opportunity would rise if wages councils were to be abolished and wages paid in the industries covered by them were to fall by 10 per cent.; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerIt is not possible to estimate in any precise way how employment might be affected if wages councils were abolished. The Government are deeply concerned about the many reports they receive that the system reduces job opportunities, especially for young people, and will be considering all available evidence and opinion on this issue before making any decisions about the future of the councils.