§ MR. ARTHUR HENDERSON (Durham, Barnard Castle)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to the system of deductions and fines prevailing in teashops in West London; whether he is aware that for being five minutes late a fine of sixpence on a wage of eight shillings weekly has been imposed; and whether, in view of the provisions of the Truck Acts, 1831–96, he has any power to order an investigation or to institute summary proceedings in such cases.
§ MR. GLADSTONEMy attention has not been specially called to this matter; and the enforcement of the provisions of the Truck Act of 1896, in so far as they apply to shop assistants, does not rest with the Home Office. The whole question of fines is under the consideration of the Departmental Committee appointed to inquire into the working of the Truck Acts, and I understand they have taken evidence with regard to the system of fining in shops.
§ MR. ARTHUR HENDERSONWhen may we expect the Report of the Committee?
§ MR. GLADSTONEI cannot give a definite reply. The inquiry has taken a longer time than was expected.