§ 31. Mr. KIRKWOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the farmers in Easter Ross and other parts of Scotland propose to reduce wages by per annum, and have declined to meet the representatives of the trade union to negotiate an agreement; that the farm workers have decided to strike unless the threat to reduce wages is withdrawn: and will the Department of Agriculture take immediate action to prevent a reduction in wages and to see that the union is recognised?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI understand that farmers in Easter Ross propose to reduce wages by £10 per annum, but I am not aware that so large a reduction has been proposed in other districts. I further understand that no negotiations have taken place in Easter Ross between the farmers and the farm workers, and that the latter are not prepared to accept situations as from Whitsunday at the rates offered them. The Department of Agriculture for Scotland have no power to take action in the direction suggested by the hon. Member, but if opportunity arose for exercising their good offices they would be glad to do anything possible.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODMay we take it that the Secretary of State will use the whole power of his office to defend these poor men, who have no organisation to defend them, in the wilds of the Highlands?
§ Sir G. COLLINSAs I mentioned to the hon. Member, my good offices are at the disposal of the different parties in the matter.