§ 46. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how it is that the extra men employed in the Customs and Excise Department outside the London area are only paid from 3s. to 4s. a day with cost-of-living bonus, which varies from 2s. to 2s. 8d. a day for an average daily length of em- 1293 ployment of eight hours; and whether he has considered increasing the pay of these Government employés?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Arthur Michael Samuel)These men are casual workers engaged mainly on watching duties. No difficulty is found in obtaining casual extra men at the ports outside the London postal area at the rates of pay referred to. In view of the nature of the work, there is no reason, in existing circumstances, to alter the range of pay within which these men may be paid according to varying local conditions.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the hon. Gentleman aware that these men have very responsible duties as excise men and have to be suitably dressed; will he consider increasing their pay?
§ Mr. SAMUELNo, Sir. I cannot give any undertaking of that kind. These men are entirely of the unskilled type. We have considered the matter, and we have come to the conclusion that the pay is reasonable and proper.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer stated that in connection with further Safeguarding Duties extra customs officials would be given employment?
§ Mr. W. THORNErose—
§ Mr. SPEAKERNothing further can arise on the answer that has been given.