§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the annual average wage of a farm worker in the Falkland Islands.
§ Mr. RentonThe minimum basic monthly wage—based on a 40-hour week — as agreed between the Falkland Islands Sheep Owners Association and the General Employees Union in October 1984 is as follows:
Minimum Basic Wage £ 1. Foreman 311.13 2. Head Shepherd (outside house) 299.47 3. Head Shepherd (settlement) 283.38 4. Handyman 283.38 5. Mechanic 283.38 6. Cook 290.72 7. Cowman/Gardener 276.04 8. Shepherd (outside house) 271.71 9. Shepherd General 254.19 10. Trainee Shepherd 250.88 11. Tractor driver 255.44 12. Leading hand (labourer) 257.84 13. Farm Labourer (18) 240.97 Based on these figures the average annual wage is £3;284.80. In addition, long service awards are paid and employees on West Falkland receive a special allowance of £7.50 per month. There are additional perquisites including, according to employers, free housing, peat, meat and milk worth approximately £2,000 annually. There is also a quarterly cost of living review.