HC Deb 04 November 1937 vol 328 cc1099-100
27. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the number of persons engaged in the mining industry whose earnings are below 40s. weekly?

Mr. E. Brown

I regret that this information is not available.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it possible to gather from figures in the Department how many persons are receiving a wage of under 40s. a week?

Mr. Brown

No, we have no figures available, but I am considering the possibility of getting figures of this kind, not for mining alone, but also for other industries.

Mr. Shinwell

Will the Minister agree that there are many of these persons receiving relief?

Mr. Brown

I could not say without having the facts.

Mr. Holdsworth

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise what a great benefit it would be to a large number of people if amending legislation was introduced?