HC Deb 06 April 1933 vol 276 cc1894-5
3. Mr. LEONARD

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that youths who have undergone a six months' course of instruction in woodworking at the Belmont Street Training Centre, Liverpool, are being directed to employment in a firm producing kitchen cabinets, with the promise of a standard wage rate of 20s., and that, after purchasing tools from his insurance benefit, a youth trained at this training centre was put to work on piecework conditions, which only permitted him to earn 9d. per day; and what action he proposes to take to safeguard youths from such conditions?

Mr. HUDSON

I presume the hon. Member refers to one of the junior instruction centres conducted by the Liverpool Education Authority for unemployed boys under the age of 18. Training for specific trades is not provided at such centres. I have ascertained that some of the boys have taken employment with a firm which appears to be that referred to in the question, but I can find no evidence either that a rate of 20s. was promised or that the conditions permitted a boy to earn only 9d. a day.

Mr. LEONARD

If I give details to the officials of the Employment Exchange, will the hon. Member take the matter up?

Mr. HUDSON

Yes, Sir. I shall be very glad indeed to do so.