§ Ms. QuinTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what discussions she has had with representatives of other EC member states and the European Commission on the proposed opinion on the introduction of an equitable wage by the member states; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe draft opinion is mainly concerned with improving the transparency of the labour market, removing discrimination and encouraging high skill, high productivity jobs in member states. The UK Government endorse these principles. However, the654W opinion will represent only the views of the European Commission and will have no legal force whatsoever. Member states do not have to endorse it or take any action that is not appropriate in light of their own circumstances. The Commission has not discussed the draft opinion with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State, or with other European Community Ministers.