HC Deb 07 June 1937 vol 324 cc1411-2
36. Mr. T. Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that some houses in the confectionery trade make it a practice to dispense with the services of their employés on attaining 18 years of age and to bring in girls of 14 to work; and whether, in view of the recommendation made to the Confectionery Trade Board by some of the employers that a definite percentage of employés shall be persons of 18 and 21 years of age, he will recommend to the trade board that this condition shall be adopted?

Mr. Butler

No recent complaints have reached the Department as to the existence of a practice of this kind. The Sugar Confectionery Trade Board within the limits of their statutory powers have, I am assured, had the matter fully in mind in shaping their scheme of minimum rates, and there is no further action which my right hon. Friend can usefully take.

Mr. Smith

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this practice is fair neither to the children nor to the decent employers; and if I submit information to him, will he have inquiries made?

Mr. Butler

I will certainly consider any information which the hon. Gentleman sends to me.