HC Deb 03 November 1932 vol 269 c1983
2. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that an official of his Department informed Eric Dodwell, 52, Winner Street, Paignton, Devon, that an assistant engaged in a small milk distributing business must be paid £2 10s. per week or a prosecution would ensue; and if he will make a statement on the matter?

Mr. HUDSON

My information is that Mr. Dodwell asked an inspector what would happen if be were to pay an adult milk roundsman less than the minimum rate of wages fixed under the Trade Boards Acts by the Milk Distributive Trade Board for such a worker. This would, of course, be an offence under the Acts.

Mr. LAMBERT

Is it a fact that an assistant milk distributor must be paid £2 10s. a week?

Mr. HUDSON

No. The rate for a man over 21 is 52s. Probably the difficulty arose because Mr. Dodwell had just gone into business and did not understand the Act.

Mr. LAMBERT

As the figure for a milk distributor is 52s., will the hon. Member introduce legislation to guarantee to the milk producer 52s. a week?