§ 26. Mr. SHINWELLasked the Secretary for Mines the wages now paid to miners in the Ruhr coal area of Germany, stated in current rates of exchange, and the hours of labour in the same minefield?
§ Commodore KINGThe average cash wages of all classes of mine labour in the Ruhr are approximately 8s. 9d. per shift calculated at the current rate of exchange. The hours of labour of workers below-ground are eight per day. Those of surface workers handling coal are 10 per day, and for others 11½ hours per day, but a break of two hours during working time is allowed in the case of all surface workers.
§ Mr. SHINWELLDo I understand from the hon. and gallant Member's answer that the figure for wages includes the increase that has been granted to the miners in the Ruhr?
§ Commodore KINGYes, it includes the 8 per cent. increase on the 1st of this month.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSAre the eight hours referred to eight hours from bank to bank, or eight hours exclusive of winding time?
§ Commodore KINGEight hours from bank to bank, calculated for each man individually.
§ Mr. BATEYCould the Minister tell us what is the wage of the datal workers in the Ruhr area since the advance?
§ Commodore KINGI should be very pleased to supply that information, if I have it, if I have notice of the question.