§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on Northern Ireland Civil Service salaries for 2003–04. [141613]
§ Mr. PearsonOn 5 November Management Side made an offer worth 3.67 per cent. for the non-industrial Civil Service grades up to Grade 6. Ministers consider this fair and reasonable in the context of prevailing economic conditions. The Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance balloted its members on industrial action and has since announced a one-day strike on 11 December. In order to ensure there is no further delay in payment of the 1 April 2003 pay award, Management has decided to proceed with payment of the offer. Departments and Agencies will endeavour to make payments as soon as possible.