§ 42. Mr. KEIR HARDIEasked the Postmaster-General if he will state what rates of pay are given to his employés in Aberdare, Cardiff, and Merthyr Tydfil, respectively; whether he is aware that the cost of living in Aberdare and Merthyr Tydfil is as high as in Cardiff; and whether, under these circumstances, he is prepared to equalise the rates of pay in the three places named?
§ Captain NORTONClass I. B. scales of pay are in force for both indoor and outdoor force at Cardiff. At Aberdare and Merthyr Tydfil the scales are Class IV. for indoor and Class III. for outdoor force. These scales are shown in the Return—No. 7355, which was issued a few days ago. The present classification of provincial offices for scales of pay is based primarily on the volume of work, subject to modification where the cost of living is shown to be specially high or low. The volume of work at Cardiff is much greater than at the other places mentioned, and this accounts for the higher classification. In the circumstances, I regret that I cannot undertake to equalise the rates of pay in the manner suggested. I may add that the recent Select Committee made certain recommendations on the subject of classification which are at present under consideration. The towns named by the hon. Member will, of course, be included in any general inquiry that may be made.
§ Mr. HAROLD SMITHMay I ask how long the recommendations of the Committee are to remain under consideration without anything being done?
§ Captain NORTONThese classifications will take some considerable time as there is an immense deal of ground to be gone over for many months.
§ Mr. KEIR HARDIEIn any inquiry that is being made specially will attention be given to the cost of living in the places named compared with Cardiff?
§ Captain NORTONYes, that is being done.