HC Deb 25 November 1937 vol 329 cc1383-4
10. Mr. Day

asked the Minister of Labour the number of establishments on Trade Board lists as at the last convenient date; the number of inspections that were made during the 12 months ended at that date and the number of inspections that were made during the same period; what percentage of establishments were inspected; and what steps he proposes to take to protect the workers in the catering trade?

Mr. E. Brown

During the 12 months ended 30th September last the number of establishments in Trade Board Trades was approximately 85,000. There were 19,000 inspections, the proportion of establishments inspected being slightly over one-fifth of the total. With regard to the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the statement which I made in the course of debate on 6th July last.

Mr. Day

Is it the intention of the Government to increase these inspectors?

Mr. Brown

The number of inspectors is 62, and there is at present no intention of increasing them.

Mr. Day

In view of the small percentage of inspections, does not the Minister think it would be advisable to increase them?

Mr. Brown

I do not consider the number to be small, especially when it is recollected that during the period mentioned the wages of 224,000 workers were reviewed, and that of this number only 2.7 per cent. were found to be underpaid.

Mr. Day

That does not answer my question. As there are only 20 per cent. inspections will he consider increasing the number of inspectors?

Mr. Brown

There is a difference of opinion between the hon. Member and myself.