44. Mr. PALMERasked the Minister of Agriculture if he can give any information regarding the standard of wages paid in industries affected by the Horticultural Products Act, and if the increased prices received for the products have been reflected in increased wages paid in the industries?
§ Sir J. GILMOURWorkers employed in England and Wales in the production of the commodities set out in the Schedule of the Horticultural Products Act are entitled to be paid wages at not less than the minimum rates prescribed in Orders made under the Agricultural Wages (Regulation) Act. I am, however, unable to say what are the standard wages actually paid. In reply to the last part of the hon. Member's question, the information which reaches me indicates that the effect of the Act of last year has been to stimulate considerably horticultural production and, therefore, employment in Great Britain.
§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESIs it true to say that the piece prices received for the productions have been reflected in increased wages and not in the increase of the labour?
§ Sir J. GILMOURAll I can say is that these wages are under proper regulation and can be adjusted.
§ Brigadier-General Sir HENRY CROFTIs it not a fact that large numbers of workers in this industry were being dismissed every day until the duties were imposed?