HC Deb 19 March 1928 vol 215 cc25-6
53. Mr. MACKINDER

(for Mr. W. THORNE) asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that a number of films have reduced the wages of their employés, who are old age pensioners, by amounts varying from 2s. 6d. to 10s. per week in consequence of the new Act coming into force; and if he will introduce legislation to prohibit this practice?

Sir K. WOOD

My right hon. Friend has no information to the effect stated in the first part of the question. As regards the second part, I would refer the hon. Member to the remarks made by my right hon. Friend on this subject in the course of the Debate on the 22nd February on the Motion of the hon. Member for Wellingborough (Mr. Cove).

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask what redress old age pensioners have when they are faced with a demand from employers that they should accept lower wages because they are in receipt of a pension?

Sir K. WOOD

I would recommend the hon. and gallant Member to study the Debate which took place on the 22nd February.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

As the right hon. Gentleman may be aware, I heard that Debate, and of course, as usual, enjoyed his speech; but of what use is it to recommend the Debate to these poor people who are faced with a reduction of wages, and has the right hon. Gentleman no power in the matter?

Sir K. WOOD

I cannot add anything to what has been said already.

Captain ARTHUR EVANS

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that this is being practised on any large scale throughout the country?

Sir K. WOOD

Not that I am aware of.