HC Deb 12 March 1917 vol 91 cc693-4
11. Mr. DUNCAN MILLAR

asked the Secretary to the Board of Trade what arrangements have been made by the Controller of Mines with regard to the employment and rates of pay of men engaged in the mining industry?

Mr. ROBERTS

No alteration has been made in the existing arrangements.

Mr. MILLAR

May I ask whether any arrangement has been made for the existing wage agreements to remain in force, and also, in the event of necessity arising for raising wages, whether any machinery has been arranged for that purpose?

Mr. ROBERTS

My right hon. Friend the President met in conference members of the Miners' Federation a week or so ago, and he gave an undertaking that there was no intention of in any way interfering with the existing wage arrangements, and of course they have their means of submitting any desire for modification.

Mr. MILLAR

May I ask who is to be the arbitrator in the case of a demand being made for increased wages?

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER

That is a hypothetical question, of which notice should be given.

Mr. HAZLETON

Can the hon Gentleman say if the Controller has taken over the Irish mines?

Mr. ROBERTS

I was not aware of mines in Ireland myself, but I must express my indebtedness to the hon. Member for improving my knowledge.

Mr. JOYCE

You have something to learn yet!

Mr. HAZLETON

Will the hon. Gentleman inquire of his own Government Department?

Mr. KILBRIDE

Will he inquire of the Chief Secretary why the Government proposed to build a railway from Athy to the Wolf Hill mines?

Forward to