HC Deb 24 August 1894 vol 29 cc419-20
MR. EVERETT (Suffolk, Woodbridge)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury whether he will endeavour to assure that when ordinary work is resumed after harvest on the Crown Farm, at Shimpling, Suffolk, wages shall be raised to 12s. a week in the case of all able-bodied men, and this without waiting for them to ask it? I beg, further, to inquire whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware that the wages of the labourers on this farm—the men not being herdsmen or stockmen—is only 10s. a week, and that they have applied to the bailiff for an increase, but been unable to obtain it?

THE SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY (Sir J. T. HIBBERT, Oldham)

I have no doubt that the fact as stated by my hon. Friend is correct, but I am informed that they have not made any application for an increase. I am sorry I cannot assent to the proposal contained in the question. It would be irregular for me to give a pledge of the kind referred to in the absence of an application from the men concerned, who should, if they have any complaint, address the Commissioner of Woods and Forests in the regular manner.

MR. EVERETT

The men assure me that they did make an application to the bailiff.

MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)

inquired whether, if the men ask for an advance, care will be taken that they are not dismissed for so doing?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

I hope so; I shall do all in my power to prevent it.

MR. A. C. MORTON (Peterborough)

What is the meaning of a "Crown farm at Shimpling," and is it the fact that the Government are carrying on a farming business there, and sweating the poor labourers?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

This is a farm which the Crown has not been able to let. If my hon. Friend can find us a tenant for it we shall be very glad.

MR. A. C. MORTON

As that offer has been made, perhaps my right hon. Friend will tell me what is the rent?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

I do not know.