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Regional Pay

The motion rests on a misrepresentation of the notion of regional or local, and the hon. Lady is attempting a second misrepresentation by bringing police

officers in at this point, when the debate ought to be about the NHS and teachers, and the civil service where it is under the control of central Government. She should know that.

Let me return to what the Government have done and complete my comments. The Government recognise that public sector pay is a complex issue that requires an evidential approach and varies significantly between public sector work forces. That is why we have asked the independent pay review bodies to consider the issue and why any decision will be based on the evidence. That is why we look forward to the outcome when the review bodies report next month.

Question put (Standing Order No. 31(2)), That the original words stand part of the Question.