§ 7. Mr. McENTEEasked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the dispute at the works of the Hygena Cabinet Company at Watford; whether he is aware that this firm are employing men drafted from Ministry of Labour training centres at very low rates of wages, ranging from 4½d. per hour, are refusing to pay extra for overtime, and are imposing a system of fines; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONI am aware that there is a dispute at the Hygena Cabinet Company on a claim for improved wages and working conditions. I understand that negotiations have been proceeding between the company and the trade union which represents the workmen and that the claim made by the union is to be considered by the directors of the company at a forthcoming meeting.
§ Mr. McENTEEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that both the employers' organisation and the trade union are very concerned about the grossly unfair conditions and about the competition of men from the training centres; and will he stop the supply of trainees who cannot possibly live on these wages?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONObviously, they are concerned about the conditions because they are calling a conference to discuss them. In the meantime, while the negotiations are proceeding, no trainees are being submitted by my Department for employment by the firm.
§ Mr. McENTEEWill the right hon. Gentleman see to it that no trainees are sent out unless trade union conditions are observed?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONI think that it would be better to wait until the result of the negotiations. It would be premature at this moment to add anything to what I have said.