§ Mr. Win GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what is his policy on(a) maintaining and (b) strengthening the laws relating to equal pay for work of equal value.
§ Mr. NichollsThe Government fully support and intend to uphold the principle of equal pay including the principle of equal pay for work of equal value.
We monitor closely the working of the Equal Pay Act to ensure that it is operating fairly and effectively, and in accordance with European Community law. In addition, the Equal Opportunities Commission has a statutory duty to review the legislation. The commission is currently carrying out a review and any proposals for change which may emerge from this will be carefully considered, as will proposals received at any time from other interested parties.