HC Deb 06 April 1914 vol 60 cc1598-9
33. Mr. CATHCART WASON

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will inquire into the allegations made by girls employed by herring curers as to the conditions under which they are conveyed to and from their work in steamboats and railway trains, and take what steps seem necessary to him to improve the said conditions?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Burns)

Inquiries are being made with regard to the accommodation provided on steamships for these fish-workers, and I shall be glad to consider any specific representations as to the present character of the train accommodation.

Mr. MACPHERSON

Will the right hon. Gentleman pay special attention to the limited and disgraceful accommodation provided for hundreds of fishery girls who come from Stornoway?

Mr. BURNS

Certainly; but I find that the latest or newest complaint about this subject in the Office is two years' old.

Mr. CATHCART WASON

In view of the fact that sickness is largely increased on their return from the fishing, will the right hon. Gentleman make further inquiry?

Mr. BURNS

Considering the exceptional circumstances in which these girls work, I shall only be too pleased to give prompt and sympathetic attention to the subject.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman send Commissioners to examine the ships when the fishery girls are in transit?

Mr. BURNS

I will certainly consider it, but not Commissioners. I shall send an inspector.