§ 56. Major Sir Edward Cadoganasked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the disproportionate increase of wages paid to juveniles; whether he will review the whole matter and take any steps to obviate the adverse effects which such wages may have upon the character, conduct and future prospects of youths employed in industry?
§ Mr. TomlinsonI am aware of the publicity given to certain cases of high earnings on the part of youths, but many of the examples quoted are exceptional, and there are other war-time influences besides the rate of wages which may affect the incidence of juvenile delinquency. In fact, I understand the ages affected are largely those before entry into industry. In the building industry, which has been mentioned in this connection, an agreement has recently been concluded whereby the wages of youths under 18 will be brought within stricter limits by the institution of a wage-for-age scale.
§ Sir E. CadoganIs my hon. Friend prepared to institute an inquiry into the whole question?
§ Mr. TomlinsonInquiries are constantly being made. I would ask my hon. and gallant Friend to await the Debate which is starting to-day, during which I think something will be said in relation to this question.
§ Dr. Edith SummerskillWill my hon. Friend also have an inquiry into the effect of poverty in the home upon the ''character, conduct, and future prospects of youths"?
§ Mr. TomlinsonIn any future inquiry all such considerations will be taken into account.
§ Mr. Kenneth LindsayIn addition, will my hon. Friend get into touch with the President of the Board of Education with a view to stimulating the provision of outlets for young people?
§ Mr. McGovernWill the hon. Member compare the deterioration caused by the incomes of the capitalist class in this country?