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National Minimum Wage Regulations 1999 (Amendment) Regulations 2008

I believe that it would not. However, I suspect that it would depend on how the work provided in lieu of accommodation has been declared. The hourly rate for work carried out elsewhere would be subject to the national minimum wage provisions. However, I am still not sure that I have understood the noble Lord’s question. Therefore, I shall take it away and respond in writing. I can only restate for the noble Lord, Lord Razzall, the Government’s clear view on pay restraint. Temporary price increases will sustain inflation if they lead to a spiral of wage increases. Therefore, we remain firm on all issues relating to public sector pay. As regards the impact on businesses, an impact assessment has shown that the cost will be somewhere between zero and £62 million. Given the rate of inflation and average wages, I should say that that will be a decreasing cost. As I said, the measure is in line with average earnings so there will not be an additional cost in adhering to the national minimum wage provisions. I commend the regulations to the Committee. On Question, Motion agreed to.