Local Authorities: Funding

Baroness Gardner of Parkes Excerpts

Tuesday 18th November 2014 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Gardner of Parkes (Con)]

Does the Minister think that it is justified for local authorities that provide care services to employ firms that are using zero-hours contracts and paying a minimal amount? I have asked this question of local authorities at a meeting here and they have said that they should not do it. Is this the reason why they do it, with people operating care facilities for patients simply not being paid an adequate amount?

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

My Lords, zero-hours contracts are not always a bad thing and they suit certain people, but, certainly, anybody who is working for a local authority needs to be on the minimum wage.