HC Deb 22 July 1931 vol 255 c1482
44. Mr. LAWTHER

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade as representing the Forestry Commissioners, if his attention has been called to the fact that men employed by the Forestry Commissioners at Deepdale East, Langdale End, and Hackness, near Scarborough, have been paid 12s. per week for piece work; and will he have inquiries made into the conditions men are working under in this district?

Mr. W. R. SMITH

The facts are not as stated. The lowest rate paid this year to piece workers at the centres named was approximately 69s. for one fortnight, while at other times the rates have been higher.

Mr. LAWTHER

Will my hon. Friend answer the last part of the question as to whether he will have inquiries made into the conditions under which men are working in this district, and will he agree to have an impartial inquiry into the facts stated in the question having regard to the fact that these men—miners—who have been drafted into the district to work for the commissioners are under notice, because they have raised the matter with the Employment Exchange at Scarborough?

Mr. SMITH

Certainly. If my hon. Friend has any information which he can let me have and which indicates that the facts at my disposal are not complete, I shall certainly be very glad to give the matter consideration.

Mr. LAWTHER

I shall be very glad to do it.