§ Mr. Harry BarnesTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he last met the relevant trade unions to discuss wages and conditions for contract cleaners in the civil service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardContract cleaners are not civil servants. Their pay and conditions of service are for agreement with their particular employers. However, to ensure compliance with the requirements of Government contracts, contractors must ensure that they maintain the level of service specified in the contracts and other rates of pay and conditions of service sufficient to attract suitable staff to achieve these levels. Departments monitor the performance of contractors throughout the duration of contracts.