HC Deb 14 June 1921 vol 143 c224
41. Mr. LAWSON

asked the Minister of Agriculture the average wage of an adult agricultural labourer in Great Britain as fixed by the various agricultural wages boards throughout the country?

Major BARNSTON

I have been asked to reply. The present weekly minimum wage for ordinary male agricultural workers aged 21 and over in England and Wales, as fixed by the Agricultural Wages Board, is in 35 counties 46s., but allowing for higher rates which are in force in the other counties it is calculated that the average weekly minimum wage throughout the country is about 46s. 7d. For information relating to the minimum wages in force in Scotland I must refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend the Secretary for Scotland.

Colonel ASHLEY

As a matter of fact, are not the earnings very much more than the minimum wage mentioned, seeing that the agricultural labourer nearly always receives a cottage at a rental greatly below the economic value?

Major BARNSTON

In some cases that is so.

Colonel ASHLEY

Is it not the case that the agricultural labourer gets a cottage and garden for 2s. 6d.?

Mr. ROYCE

Is there not a statutory charge of 3s. on those cottages?

Mr. SPEAKER

Hon. Members should give notice of those detailed questions.