HC Deb 30 July 1931 vol 255 c2464
81. Mr. LAWTHER

asked the hon. Member for Central Leeds, as representing the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, whether the Commissioners intend to give to their workmen on afforestation an annual holiday with pay, similar to that existing for their salaried staff?

Mr. DENMAN (Second Church Estates Commissioner)

The matter is being examined, and I will let the hon. Member know the result.

Mr. LAWTHER

Would it not be possible, after examination, to give these workmen the opportunity of a holiday similar to that enjoyed by other members of the staff of the Ecclesiastical Commission?

Mr. DENMAN

I am afraid I cannot foretell the result of the examination.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Can the hon. Gentleman say why there is a differentiation in the treatment with regard to holidays of those engaged in this work as compared with that adopted by other Government Departments?

Mr. DENMAN

In the first place, this is not a Government Department; and, secondly, there is not, as far as I am aware, any differentiation between the practice of the Ecclesiastical Commissioners and that of the Forestry Commission.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Why has the hon. Member not taken the lead in this matter from Members of the Government, who have improved holiday conditions for their employés?

Mr. DENMAN

It is quite possible that the Ecclesiastical Commissioners will themselves take the lead.