§ Mr. HUNTasked how many Labour Exchange offices are now established in London and its suburbs; and what is the number of the officials in these offices and their remuneration?
Mr. BUXTONThere are twenty-eight labour exchanges open in London and suburbs at the present time with a total staff, including the divisional office, of 239 officers. The annual amount paid in wages and salaries in respect of these officers is about £21,000.
§ Mr. HUNTasked whether at the labour exchanges there are separate lists made of temporary and permanent situations found by these offices for the thousands of people who are reported to call at them in search of employment; and do the officials offer employment for less than the trade union rates of pay?
Mr. BUXTONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second portion, I would refer the hon. Member to Section 4 of the general regulations made in pursuance of the Labour Exchanges Act which governs the procedure of labour exchange officers in this matter. I am sending him a copy of these regulations.
§ Mr. HUNTCould the right hon. Gentleman answer the last question, as to whether the official trade union rates of pay are paid by the Government or not?
Mr. BUXTONThat is exactly what I have answered. I will send the hon. Member a copy of the regulations.
§ Mr. HUNTThe right hon. Gentleman could surely answer the question straight whether the Government do or do not pay trade union rates of wages?
Mr. BUXTONIt is a very simple matter. If the hon. Member will study the regulations and wishes to ask any further questions I shall be glad to answer them.