HC Deb 13 July 1936 vol 314 cc1648-9
25. Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that a workman named Wilfred Marshall, of Stainton, near Rotherham, made a complaint to the Ministry that his employer at Rock House Farm was not paying the wages due under the Agricultural Wages (Regulation) Act, 1924; that the Ministry inspector made inquiries at the farm and proved underpayment; that the workman was afterwards given one week's notice and later on received a solicitor's letter demanding possession of the house under threat of turning the man and his family on to the street; and will he take action to prevent employers who break the law from victimising workmen who have not broken the law?

Mr. ELLIOT

My attention has already been drawn to the case in question. Without expressing any opinion on the facts of this particular case, I have no hesitation in saying that I would very strongly deprecate the action of an employer in dismissing a worker as a result of an investigation by an inspector which disclosed contravention of the agricultural minimum wage orders. As the hon. Member is aware, however, I have no power to prevent an employer terminating a worker's contract of service. I would add that from the information at my disposal, I have every reason to believe that cases of victimisation are rare.

Mr. WILLIAMS

In view of the bountiful blessings conferred upon agriculture and farmers generally, does the right hon. Gentleman not think that he has a duty to agricultural labourers, who are merely complying with the law, to prevent them from being victimised by farmers who are known to have broken the law?

Mr. ELLIOT

Certainly, and I shall carry that out to the best of my ability.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell the House how he intends to carry it out? Does he intend to provide a few thousand pounds for more wage inspectors and at the same time provide a few more millions for farmers in one way or another?

Mr. ELLIOT

The inspectorate has been increased lately. If more are needed they will be appointed.