§ 27. Mr. KELLYasked the Minister of Labour the rates of wages paid to men and women engaged in the sugar-refining trade in Great Britain for a normal week; and what are the number of hours which constitute a. normal week in that trade?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Betterton)So far as I am aware there is no general agreement fixing rates of wages for workpeople engaged in sugar refining, and the information at my disposal is insufficient to enable me to state the rates most generally paid, which, it is understood, vary with different firms. According to the latest information in my possession, the normal hours usually average 47 per week.
§ Mr. KELLYIs there any interim reconstruction committee or joint industrial council in connection with this industry, or even a trade board?
§ Mr. BETTERTONThat matter does not arise out of the question. In any case, I must ask the hon. Member to put it down.
Commander WILLIAMSIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the conditions of employment in this industry are likely to be considerably better in the future, thanks to the Budget?
§ Mr. KELLYArising out of the hon. Gentleman's reply—and apart from the attempted advertisement—will he make some inquiries into the hours and wages in this industry?
§ Mr. BETTERTONAs the hon. Gentleman knows, we cannot tell if the information will be given to us, or if information is given to us, on terms, and, if it is to be regarded as confidential, I cannot assist the hon. Member in the matter. I can only suggest that he should put down a further question.