Oral Answers to Questions
Debate between Anneliese Dodds and Ben Obese-Jecty(2 days, 19 hours ago)
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Anneliese Dodds
We recognise that this is an issue of enduring concern to many. We listen to views from our Caribbean partners on the full range of bilateral issues, but our policy on reparations is clear: we do not pay them. We are determined to work together for the future.
Ben Obese-Jecty (Huntingdon) (Con)
A quick question: to what extent do the Government support CARICOM’s 10-point plan for reparatory justice?
Anneliese Dodds
As I just stated, our policy on reparations is clear: we do not pay them.
Oral Answers to Questions
Debate between Anneliese Dodds and Ben Obese-Jecty(3 weeks, 1 day ago)
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Ben Obese-Jecty (Huntingdon) (Con)
On Monday, a judge in an employment tribunal brought by the GMB union ruled that predominantly female Asda employees on the shop floor and predominantly male employees working in Asda’s warehouses—completely different roles with different conditions—were carrying out work of equal value. The ruling, which is similar to that which bankrupted Birmingham city council, could cost Asda £1.2 billion in back pay and an annual wage bill increase of £400 million—an even bigger blow than the additional £100 million increase in the company’s wage bill as a result of the Chancellor’s Budget. Does the Minister agree that private companies should be free to set different wages for completely different jobs, irrespective of the gender balance in those roles, without being overruled by the courts? [Interruption.]
Anneliese Dodds
I think the response of the House is very similar to the response of the general public and, indeed, the response of business. Business knows that having pay that is in line with skills, and equal pay for work of equal value, is incredibly important. Clearly, matters that have been covered in employment tribunals are for those tribunals to determine, and I would not criticise the results of an employment tribunal from within this House if I were the hon. Gentleman.