HC Deb 17 November 1936 vol 317 cc1507-8
65. Mr. JOHNSTON

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been drawn to the statement in the Report of the Committee on Farm Workers in Scotland that since 1930 the weekly cash wages of ploughmen have fallen by from 4s. to 8s. per week; whether he is aware that since 1933 there has been an upward tendency in wages for adult male agricultural workers in England while Scottish agricultural wages have been decreasing; and whether and, if so, when he proposes to introduce legislation for the extension of the Agricultural Wages (Regulation) Act, 1924, to Scotland, as unanimously recommended by the Committee?

Mr. WEDDERBURN

I am aware of the fall which took place in the level of Scottish agricultural workers' wages following upon the slump of five or six years ago, but it is clear that the movement has been checked, and indeed there are indications in recent months of an upward tendency. The matter, however, remains one of concern to His Majesty's Government, and the recommendations of the Committee on Farm Workers in Scotland are being carefully examined in the light of all the circumstances, including the general condition of Scottish agriculture. I am not in a position to say when any legislation that may be decided upon will be introduced.

Mr. JOHNSTON

In view of the unanimous report presented to the Gov- ernrnent, will the hon. Member suggest to the Secretary of State for Scotland that he might make inquiries through the usual channels as to whether this simple measure of justice to agricultural workers in Scotland might not be passed through the House as an agreed Measure?

Mr. WEDDERBURN

The right hon. Member may be assured that the Secretary of State is very carefully considering the report of the committee.

Mr. JOHNSTON

Will the Under-Secretary answer my question? Could not inquiries be made as to whether a Measure which is good for England and is unanimously recommended for Scotland might not be passed as an agreed Measure?

Mr. WEDDERBURN

I hope that any Measure which my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State decides to introduce will receive such support from the right hon. Member.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Is it not the fact that the farm workers of Scotland will never get, and can never get, decent wages until the cereal growers in Scotland get a square deal? What action is my hon. Friend going to take in that matter?