Small expectations
Page 4
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Stage four of the Government's pay policy sets a five per cent guideline on pay increases. This was expected, and, predictably, the Labour Movement is split over the new low-pay norm.
Less expected was the White Paper which broadly hints that if there is another Labour Government, there will be no return to free collective bargaining. This is quite unacceptable to the trade union movement, and also to many MPs.
However, financial and political considerations apart, the White Paper carries hidden dangers. Whether the academics who advise our Westminster representatives accept it or not, man is principally motivated by money. Remove that and it has to be replaced by something equally acceptable.
That is the dilemma which will face line management if demands are to be pegged. A labour force cannot be jollied along like schoolchildren with promises of "jam tomorrow".
This is a time and energy-consuming activity which management cannot afford. Before accepting Healey's package, MPs should ponder it carefully. They can be assured the electorate will.