HC Deb 29 June 1937 vol 325 cc1783-4
34. Mr. Watson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the conditions on a farm in Fife, where the farm servant and his family were housed in a stable and harness room and where the wages paid were 15s. per week; and whether he has taken any steps to remedy that state of matters?

Mr. Elliot

The case referred to has not been brought to my notice, but, if the hon. Member will send me particulars, I will look into the accommodation question. With regard to the wages aspect of the case, there is at present no statutory regulation of agricultural workers' wages in Scotland, but proposals to establish such regulation are contained in the Bill now before the House.

Mr. Kirkwood

Is it not possible to enforce living conditions for agricultural workers, seeing that the Government subsidises agriculture in Scotland as well as in England, and does the right hon. Gentleman think 15s. a week is a living wage for country servants?

Mr. Elliot

No, Sir. I hope for the hon. Member's support of the Bill.

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