§ Mr. RAMSAY MACDONALDasked whether, in connection with the Coal Mines (Minimum Wage) Act, it was the intention of the Government that an underground worker would be entitled to the minimum wage unless he has been adjudged as coming under one or other of the exemptions provided for in the Act; and whether in the case of a dispute on this matter, an employer could suspend payment of the minimum pending the decision of the district board?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Buxton)The intention of the Government in this matter is expressed in Section 1 (1) of the Coal Mines (Minimum Wage) Act. The Board of Trade have no authority to give a binding interpretation of the Act, but I have no doubt that any difficulty with regard to the point raised by my hon. Friend will be capable of solution by the exercise of good sense on both sides.
§ Mr. J. WARDWill the right hon. Gentleman get this principle of a minimum wage applied to sweating contractors in all Government Departments?
§ Mr. BUXTONThat is rather a large question.