§ Lord Vinsonasked Her Majesty's Government:
In regard to that part of the Agricultural Wages order dated 2nd June 1985, why the allowance that can be deducted for the provision of board and lodging is less for an 18 year-old than a 19 year-old; and
In regard to that part of the Agricultural Wages Order dated 2nd June 1985, why the amount deducted for the provision of free accommodation (£1.50 a week) has remained unaltered since 1976, over which period the Agricultural Wages Board has raised the minimum rate without overtime for skilled workers from £39.55 to £ 106.16; and
In regard to that part of the Agricultural Wages order dated 2nd June 1985, why the allowance authorised to be paid to shepherds for keeping a dog has been raised by 8.3 per cent. in line with the recommended wage increase, when over the same period the retail price index only rose by 5.1 per cent.
§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Lord Belstead)All such matters are determined by the Agricultural Wages Board. I understand, however, that the decisions on the various values set by Agricultural Wages Orders are taken in the light of issues raised by the representatives of the employers and workers on the board and of the overall wages award.