HC Deb 21 July 1938 vol 338 cc2392-3
5. Mr. W. Joseph Stewart

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that there is grave concern in regard to the low rates of wages that are being paid on the Pallion trading estate, Sunderland, girls of 17 years of age being paid as little as 8s. per week for a 10-hour day; and will he ensure that, before a factory is let to any employer of labour, that employer is prepared to observe the Fair-Wages Clause?

Mr. E. Brown

I am informed that in the only factory as yet actually in operation on the Pallion estate not less than trade board rates are being paid.

Mr. Stewart

Would the right hon. Gentleman not look at evidence, if I were to send it to him, and ensure that controllers of these factories, which are erected out of the public purse, employ people at trade union rates, and are not allowed to exploit our young people?

Mr. Brown

If the hon. Member gets into touch with the firm, I think he will find that he is doing them an injustice. I have pointed out they are now paying trade board rates.

Mr. Storey

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this factory is not yet in production, that most of the girls employed are learners undergoing training, that full trade board wages are being paid, and that only 42½ hours a week are being worked, spread over five days?

Mr. Brown

That is my information, and that is why I said that, if the hon. Member gets into touch with the firm, he will find that, whoever was responsible for this publicity—I have no doubt that he put down the question in good faith—he has really done the firm an injustice.

Mr. Stewart

May I inform the right hon. Gentleman that I have in my pocket evidence to prove that this firm pays 8s.a week to girls of 17 for a 10-hour day?

Mr. Brown

I again suggest that the hon. Gentleman should discuss it with the firm, when he will find that my statement is accurate, and that trade board wages are being paid.