5
13.
As with the "core grade" method one disadvantage of the qualifications method is that comparability with the private sector would be applied to a wide range of not necessarily comparable jobs, but on the evidence available the Commission accepts that total comparability with the private sector is impossible.
14.
The principle of fair comparison provides for civil service pay to follow rather than lead the private sector and it could be argued that any general departure from this practice would be economically undesirable. However, figures provided by the Census and Statistics Department and the Pay Investigation Unit suggest that, in the case of lower paid civil servants, salaries currently lead the private sector. The Commission would welcome views on whether, as a matter of social policy, an exception should be made to the principle that civil service pay should follow that in the private sector in the case of the lower paid, at least until such time as market forces lead to increases in pay rates generally.
15.
III The Pay Investigation Unit
Implementation of the principle of fair comparison in whatever form and by whatever means depends to a large extent on the work of the Pay Investigation Unit. This Unit, which was established in 1969, has as its primary function the collection and presentation of information on private sector pay and conditions of service. It is an independent unit, although it works closely with the Pay and Structure Division of the Civil Service Branch which is involved both in the planning of the Unit's work programme and the implementation of its findings.
16.
Representations regarding the operation of the Pay Investigation Unit have been few. In most instances staff representatives have said that they know too little about the work of the Unit for them to comment meaningfully. In the Commission's opinion there is an early requirement, therefore, to provide staff with more and better information on the Unit's work. If it is to play a major role in determining civil service pay it is essential that its work and method of operation be clearly understood by those affected.
17.
Among those who have commented more specifically on the Pay Investigation Unit, a number have expressed doubts as to its independence. As far as the Commission has been able to ascertain, the Unit does its work fairly and objectively and the doubts expressed are unfounded. Nevertheless, while it remains so closely linked to the Pay and Structure Division
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