§ Mr. Baldryasked the Secretary of State for Employment what was the increase in average earnings in the United Kingdom in 1983; and how this compares with the position in other European Economic Community member states.
§ Mr. GummerThe following table sets out the available details on wages per head for manual workers in manufacturing industry.
Percentage increase in the year to the fourth quarter of 1983 Increase Great Britain* 10 Belgium† 4 Denmark‡ 4 France║ 12 Federal Republic of Germany¶ 3 Italy║ 14 Netherland║ 1 Spain● 18 Source: Main Economic Indicators (OECD). * Average weekly earnings of all employees. Excluding overtime, the increase was about 8½ per cent. † Hourly earnings. Also includes mining and transport. ‡ Hourly earnings. Also include mining. ║ Hourly wage rates. ¶ Hourly earnings. ● Hourly earnings. All industries. The effect on Britain's competitive position is graphically illustrated by these figures.