§ Mr. COOPERasked the President of the Board of Trade if it is the intention of the Government to fix a flat rate for minimum wages of workers in the Cardboard Box trade under the Wages Board, irrespective of the variation in different districts in the cost of living and rents?
Mr. BUXTONThe duty of fixing minimum rates of wages under the Trade Boards Act is imposed on the several Trade Boards, and not on the Government. I understand that the Paper Box Trade Board (Great Britain) have decided to fix certain minimum time rates of wages for female workers, and that these rates are the same for all parts of Great Britain.
§ Mr. COOPERIn view of the differences in the cost of living and rents in different districts does the right hon. Gentleman consider this is just to the tradesmen situated in the cheaper districts?
Mr. BUXTONObviously it is not for me to give an opinion upon that; that is a point for the Trade Boards to decide.
§ Mr. CHIOZZA MONEYIs not this minimum a minimum for the lowest paid wages districts, and therefore should it not be applicable to all?