HC Deb 15 February 1938 vol 331 cc1710-1
73. Mr. James Hall

asked the right hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, whether, in view of the number of wage increases granted in industry generally and of the increase in the cost of living, the Commissioners intend to grant an increase in wages to their employés?

Sir G. Courthope

After careful inquiry, the Forestry Commissioners in April last granted an increase in wages to their forest workers. They do not at present propose to make a further increase.

Mr. Hall

What are the reasons why the Forestry Commissioners are not prepared to adopt the same standard as is adopted by good employers in this country?

Sir G. Courthope

Our standard of wages is in advance of relative wages in the rural districts.

Mr. W. H. Green

Can the right hon. and gallant Gentleman give an undertaking that, if the representatives of the men ask for an interview, such as frequently is granted by private employers, the Commissioners will accede to their request?

74. Mr. Hall

asked the right hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, what reply was given to the application from the Transport and General Workers' Union for increases of wages for the Commissioners' employés?

Sir G. Courthope

The same answer was given to the application from the Transport and General Workers' Union as I have given to the hon. Member's previous question.

Mr. Hall

Are the Forestry Commissioners prepared to see the representatives of the Transport and General Workers' Union for the purpose of discussing new points?

Sir G. Courthope

There are no new points to discuss.

75. Mr. Hall

asked the right hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, what complaints the Commissioners have received from their employés regarding their conditions of employment?

Sir G. Courthope

Proposals for alteration of the wages and working conditions of forestry workers were received from the Scottish Forestry section of the Transport and General Workers' Union regarding overtime, working hours and holidays.

Mr. Hall

Are not the Forestry Commissioners prepared to consider complaints which are brought to their notice?