HC Deb 23 January 1930 vol 234 c310
5. Mr. KELLY

asked the Minister of Labour whether any general increase in the rates of pay of men and women in the artificial silk industry has taken place during the last three years?

Miss BONDFIELD

I regret that the information at my disposal is insufficient to enable me to state whether any general increase in the rates of wages of artificial silk workers has taken place during the last three years.

Mr. KELLY

Has the right hon. Lady any information regarding the rates of pay for the silk industry?

Miss BONDFIELD

We have secondary information, but the point is that there are no accurate statistics before 1929. After this year, we shall be able to make a comparison.

Mr. HANNON

Is this not one of those industries which has become stable and secure after having obtained the benefits of safeguarding?