16. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the fact that there are fully-trained and skilled Englishmen able to determine chick-sexing, he will be prepared to reduce the number of permits of Japanese who are preventing Englishmen obtaining employment in this respect?
§ Mr. E. BrownI am advised by the Ministry of Agriculture that their information does not support the view that there are sufficient British chick-sexers who have attained the speed and accuracy necessary for commercial practice; but I shall be glad to consider any information which my hon. Friend may have on the subject.
Mr. De la BèreIs my right hon. Friend not aware that I have no quarrel with Japanese chick-sexers, but am only anxious that Englishmen should have a priority of rights, because I believe in keeping British jobs for British boys?
§ Mr. BrownThe hon. Member will know that it is my duty as Minister of Labour to see that the British worker does get priority, and that policy is carried out, but I must point out to him that when in 1936 the National Poultry Council arranged a chick-sexing test for British poultry-keepers, none of those who presented themselves for the test was able to pass.
§ 17. Sir Adrian Baillieasked the Minister of Labour what is the present number of Japanese chick-sexers now in employment in this country; and what wages they are paid?
§ Mr. BrownAccording to the information in the possession of my Department, there are 18 Japanese chick-sexers at present employed, with permission, in this country. They are paid a salary of £1 a week, with free board and lodging, and a substantial fee is also paid in respect of each man to the Japanese Chick-Sexing Association, through which their services are obtained.