HC Deb 17 June 1937 vol 325 cc529-30
8. Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will instruct Employ- ment Exchanges to inform farmers as to the number of unemployed workers registered at the exchanges available for employment and to ascertain from farmers whether suitable accommodation can be provided for temporary workers and to state the rate of wages to be paid?

Mr. E. Brown

Steps are taken to inform farmers of the assistance which the Employment Exchanges can give in connection with their labour requirements, and of the extent to which suitable unemployed workers are available for vacancies which may be notified. Particulars are also ascertained of the conditions of employment, including the accommodation which can be provided in cases where insufficient workers are available locally and it becomes necessary to introduce suitable workers from other districts.

Mr. Leslie

Will the right hon. Gentleman explain the scheme of the Westmorland County Council whereby they allow their men to work for farmers for a certain period? Who will make up the difference between what the local authorities pay and the low wages paid by the farmers?

Mr. Brown

The hon. Member has put down a general question. If he wants an answer to a particular question, perhaps he will put it down.