HC Deb 07 July 1936 vol 314 cc1027-8
57. Mr. LAWSON

asked the Minister of Labour whether consideration has been given to the representations made to him and to the Minister of Transport by the National Joint Conciliation Board for the road motor transport industry (goods) with regard to the non-observance in many instances of the rates of wages and conditions of service agreed upon by the Board; and what action it is proposed to take?

Mr. E. BROWN

My right hon. Friend and I have given careful consideration to the views of the National Conciliation Board and to other representations, and we are of opinion that it is desirable to consider the means by which the progress already made in the better regulation of the working conditions of road transport workers may be further advanced. Having regard to the complexity of the issues involved, we feel that it is necessary that the whole position should be carefully examined and we propose, therefore, to appoint a small committee of independent persons with the following terms of reference: To examine the present position in regard to the regulation of wages and conditions of service of persons employed in connection with the carriage of goods by road (whether in vehicles authorised under 'A,' 'B' or 'C' licences) and to make recommendations as to the action which it is desirable to take.

Mr. LAWSON

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, are not these companies operating under regular licences which lay it down that they have to pay the agreed wages, and is there any need to inquire into that matter?

Mr. BROWN

The position is much more complicated than that, and that is the reason for this action, which is agreed upon by members of the Board on both sides.

Mr. BENJAMIN SMITH

Is it not the fact that the Act is implicit that an inquiry shall be set up under the aegis of the Ministry of Labour, and that fair wages were to be so construed, and that these wages are not in fact generally being paid? I join in thanking the Minister for what he has said, but will he tell the House the date upon which this Committee is likely to meet?

Mr. BROWN

I cannot say that. As the hon. Member knows, this is the result of representations made to my right hon. Friend and myself by the Board.