§ 42. Mr. STURROCKasked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the resolution passed by the Drapers' Chamber of Trade, in which it is declared that trade boards have had a disastrous effect upon the dressmaking, bespoke and millinery trades he will inform the House of further contemplated extensions of these boards, so that full consideration can be given to the question of safeguarding traders in smaller towns who find themselves handicapped in business by reason of the imposition of rates of wages based upon the conditions prevailing in the larger centres?
§ Mr. SHAWI have seen the resolution in question, but I do not agree with its terms. The hon. Member is probably aware that differential minimum rates of wages have been fixed for the smaller towns and rural districts as compared with the larger towns, by the trade boards dealing with retail bespoke dressmaking in England and in Scotland and for the retail branch of the hat, cap and millinery trade in Scotland. While I deeply deplore the unemployment in the trades mentioned, there is nothing to show that it is caused by the trade boards, and indeed it is no higher than unemployment in trades where no boards exist. I should add, that so far as the establishment of new boards is concerned, the fullest notice of intention to proceed will be given in order to enable all interested parties to make observations.