HC Deb 15 July 1912 vol 41 c38
89. Mr. BARNES

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is yet in a position to take steps to include shirtmakers in the schedule of sweated trades for treatment under the Trade Boards Act?

Mr. BUXTON

I am afraid I cannot promise any immediate extension of the Act, but the question of shirtmaking will receive careful consideration, along with other trades.

Mr. W. THORNE

Has the right hon. Gentleman made himself acquainted with the wages and other conditions of these poor people and the prices paid for the work?

Mr. BUXTON

There is the question as to when it may be expedient to extend the Act. It has not been very long in operation, but I am giving the matter very careful attention.

Mr. CHIOZZA MONEY

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the Board of Trade are collecting any body of evidence with regard to the wages paid?

Mr. BUXTON

We have a good deal of information, and we are obtaining more.

Mr. WATT

Are we to understand the right hon. Gentleman's Department denies that shirtmaking is a sweated industry?

Mr. BUXTON

No, I am not denying that.