§ 46. Viscount SANDONasked the Prime Minister whether he intends setting up, or making investigations with a view to setting up, a wages board in the coal industry, as established successfully in the railway and other industries?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe success of such a Board, in the coal industry and in other industries would depend upon the desire of the industry itself to make it a success. This was recognised by the Royal Commission, whose comment on the subject was that there might be advantages in having a Board of this sort if the two parties agreed. This condition is not at present fulfilled, and I do not think therefore that it would be any use to pursue the proposal for the moment.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWhich of the parties did not agree?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNeither of them.
§ Mr. MARDY JONESMay I ask the Prime Minister whether, if anything is done in connection with a National Wages Board in the coal industry, something could be done to cover the hours as well? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the strong feeling of resentment amongst miners throughout the country against the policy of extending the hours for miners?