§ 8. Mr. HANNONasked the Minister of Labour whether any reduction has recently taken place in the wages of iron and steel workers in Belgium and to what extent; and if she will give the precise wages figures now paid in the iron and steel industry in Belgium converted to British currency?
§ Miss BONDFIELDI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 20th January to a question by the hon. Mem- 340 ber for Rutland and Stamford (Mr. Smith-Carington), of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. HANNONWhen the figures are compared as between the wages paid to iron and steel workers in Belgium and in this country respectively, does the Minister take into account and recommend to the Government any steps to safeguard the iron and steel industry of this country?
§ Mr. McSHANECan the Minister say whether Belgium is protected or not?
§ Mr. HANNONMay I have an answer to my question?
§ Miss BONDFIELDObviously it does not fall within my Department to answer that question.