§ 13. Mr. T. SMITHasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the large number of farmers still breaking the law by paying their men less than the minimum rates of wages laid down by the county agricultural wages committees, it is proposed to increase the number of inspectors?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Elliot)The number of inspectors engaged in securing the observance of the Agricultural Wages (Regulation) Act was increased by three last year. I believe that the existing staff is adequate for the purpose.
§ Mr. SMITHIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Agricultural Workers' Union have plenty of evidence that in scores of cases district minimum rates are not being paid?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI shall be very glad to examine any such evidence.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEDoes my right hon. Friend accept the statement in the first part of the question?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI do not accept anything. I simply answer the question that has been put.
§ Captain P. MACDONALDIs my right hon. Friend aware that the Agricultural Workers' Union only represents about 5 per cent. of the agricultural workers of the country?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTEWill my right hon. Friend repudiate the statement that large numbers of farmers are breaking the law? It is quite easy for him to do that.