HC Deb 28 March 1928 vol 215 cc1154-5
24. Sir F. HALL

asked the Minister of Labour the reason for which sanction has been given for the admission to this country of a number of Germans to fill, positions as waiters; on whose application this permission has been given; and whether the German authorities have given leave for a corresponding number of English waiters to go to Germany?

Mr. BETTERTON

These permits were for head waiters. Before granting them my right hon. Friend satisfied himself that there was a shortage of men of the necessary skill and experience. The permits were granted to the intending employers, Messrs. Lyons and Company, who, I may say, make special efforts to train and employ British waiters as far as possible. As regards the last part of the question, I have no information as to the number of British waiters who have gone to Germany, but I have no reason to suppose that the German authorities interpose any unnecessary restrictions.

Sir F. HALL

Does the hon. Gentleman recognise that a large number of English waiters are out of employment; and does he think it advisable in the circumstances that foreigners should be allowed to come into this country and take work that would otherwise be allotted to Englishmen?

Mr. KELLY

In what quarters did the Minister make his inquiries as to the shortage in this country? Was any inquiry made from the trade union of this industry?

Mr. BETTERTON

I rather think there is some misapprehension with regard to this question, and the answer which I have given. The question relates only to the very limited class of head waiters. It does not apply to the general body of waiters who do not come within that category. I may say that my right hon. Friend is most anxious to do the best he can in the interests of the waiters generally, and he thinks a very limited number of experts from other countries might be of advantage in training English waiters.

Captain STREATFEILD

Does not the hon. Gentleman consider that this question could be adequately dealt with by a poll tax on all foreign employés in this country?

Mr. KELLY

Is the hon. Gentleman prepared to give the House the names of the authorities from whom he made inquiries?

Mr. BETTERTON

My right hon. Friend has made inquiries from all quarters where he thought he could get information, and I have stated the conclusion at which he arrived.