HC Deb 29 July 1918 vol 109 cc25-6
30. Mr. C. DUNCAN

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that the farmers in Suffolk have already considerably reduced the hours of working rather than pay the labourers the increased rates for overtime; and whether, in view of the national necessity and the shortage of labour, and the consequent danger to the harvest, he will make such representations to the farmers concerned as will ensure that the harvests are secured without loss?

Sir R. WINFREY

I understand that some readjustment of the ordinary working hours has been, in certain cases, mutually agreed between farmers and labourers, but I hope that no action will be taken by either side to disturb unnecessarily the existing arrangements, or to impose unreasonable conditions. I feel sure that in the present shortage of skilled labour on the land farmers will be ready to avail themselves of the full services of their men, and to pay such reasonable rates of wages as may be arranged.

31. Mr. C. DUNCAN

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that, in consequence of the decision of the farmers in Sussex to throw over the recommendation of the agricultural wages board to pay the new rates of wages back from the 31st March, the labourers have decided not to touch the harvest; whether he is aware that the labourers are perfectly loyal and willing to do all in their power to help the country at this time and that all they ask is that the farmers concerned should keep to the bargain entered into; and whether he will arrange for a conference with a view to effecting a settlement of this difficulty?

Sir R. WINFREY

As the hon. Member is aware, the acceptance by farmers of the suggestion of the agricultural wages board that the minimum rates of wages, where fixed, shall be retrospective, is a voluntary act on their part. The President hopes that good sense on both sides will avert any action which will endanger the harvest. He is taking immediate steps to arrange a conference between the representatives of farmers and labourers on the subject.

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