HC Deb 23 March 1938 vol 333 c1211
75. Mr. Kelly

asked the Minister of Labour the results of the interview between the Chief Conciliation Officer of his Department, the manager of the Landauer date factory, Gateshead, and a representative of the Transport and General Workers' Union on 2nd February; whether he is aware that the manager has since declared that he is not prepared to guarantee the wages for a further period; and whether he proposes to take any further action in the matter?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Lennox-Boyd)

At the meeting on 2nd February an agreement was reached between the firm and the union. I am not aware of the precise position at present regarding the guaranteed wages, but I understand that contact has been maintained between the parties. As the hon. Member knows, the good offices of the Ministry are at the disposal of the parties at any time.

Mr. Kelly

In view of the low wages paid to these women, 9s. 6d. per week, will the hon. Member follow this matter up closely to see that something is done that they may be adequately paid?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The Chief Conciliation Officer in Leeds is in touch with the manager of the factory, and with the Newcastle office of the Transport and General Workers' Union, and the latter has assured him that if he wishes to have the assistance of the Department he will get in touch with the Conciliation Officer.