§ 87. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that the salary of messengers employed by the Customs and Excise Department is only £2 1s, 2d. per week after health and unemployment insurance is deducted; whether he is aware of the nature of their work and the strict medical examination they have to undergo; and whether he is prepared to grant an increase in their wages?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Ronald McNeill)I am aware of the remuneration and conditions of service of the messengers referred to, in regard to some of whom the figures quoted in the question are correct. I do not think that the remuneration of civil servants can properly be dealt with by questions in this House. There is a recognised procedure for dealing with such questions which has been duly followed in this case.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYYes, but is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that that is a very bad example to employers all over the country, and will he look into this special case?
§ Mr. McNEILLIt is a matter of opinion.