HC Deb 19 March 1919 vol 113 cc2079-80
28. Lieutenant-Colonel W. GUINNESS

asked the Minister of Labour whether a dressmaking board is being set up; what will be the functions of this body; and what will be the estimated annual cost?

Mr. WARDLE

In agreement with the principal associations of employers and workpeople concerned, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour proposes to apply the Trade Boards Acts to the women's clothing trades, including dressmaking. The functions of the contemplated boards will be to fix minimum rates of wages, to regulate conditions of employment in the manner provided by the Acts, and to advise the Government on industrial matters affecting their trades. Expenses and subsistence allowances will be allowed to members of the boards on a scale authorised by the Treasury, but the annual cost will, of course, depend on the number of meetings which the boards find it necessary to hold.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the dressmakers in the West of London are ready to employ any number of women and cannot obtain them?

Mr. WARDLE

I do not think that question arises out of the question on the Paper.