HC Deb 18 February 1914 vol 58 cc932-3
31. Mr. HUNT

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that the highest wages paid to agricultural labourers in any districts in Ireland are lower than the lowest wages paid in any districts in England, he will in any measure for the improvement of English labourers' wages include similar provisions for the increase also of agricultural labourers' wages in Ireland?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Runciman)

I am not prepared to make any statement at present in regard to legislation for the improvement of agricultural labourers' wages in England. In so far as the question relates to wages in Ireland, it should be addressed to the representatives of the Irish Government.

Mr. HUNT

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Government, under Home Rule, will apply the principle of the minimum wage to Ireland, and how are—

Mr. SWIFT MacNEILL

That is a Chinese puzzle!

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Questions on Home Rule must be addressed either to the Prime Minister or to the representative of the Irish Government.