HC Deb 06 April 1937 vol 322 cc11-2
25. Mr. Kelly

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that branch managers of Employment Exchanges in receipt of a wage of £5 15s. per week have to engage the services of a clerical assistant to whom a wage of£3 per week must be paid out of the £5 15s.; and will he consider improving the position of these branch managers?

Mr. E. Brown

The suggestion in the first part of the hon. Member's question is incorrect. The remuneration of branch managers was revised only last autumn under an agreement arrived at by the Departmental Whitley Council, to which the Branch Managers' Federation was a party.

Mr. Kelly

Is it not the fact that these people are receiving a figure round about that stated in the question, and that they are compelled to provide this clerical assistance, which takes away most of the income they receive; and cannot the Minister hold himself responsible for the clerical assistance?

Mr. Brown

No, Sir, I cannot do that. As I pointed out, this matter was reviewed only in the autumn, and the decision arrived at was that which was arrived at in connection with the Joint Whitley Council.

Mr. Muff

Is it true that the assistants get more remuneration than the managers?

Mr. Brown

That is not so.

Mr. Jagger

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the abolition of this system of farming out?