HC Deb 19 May 1938 vol 336 cc557-8
19. Mr. Davidson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has completed the inquiry into the question of catering workers conditions; and has he any statement to make?

Mr. E. Brown

No, Sir. We have, however, taken some preliminary steps in this matter.

Mr. Davidson

Will the right hon. Gentleman quicken the preliminary steps? Is he aware that there are workers even in the City of London getting 12s. 6d. for a 70-hour week, men and women employed by companies and firms?

Mr. Brown

I hope to initiate discussion in the near future, but the Industrial Relations Department of the Ministry of Labour is limited in size and I have put upon them in the last three years a very heavy amount of administrative work.

Mr. Robert Gibson

Will he also include in his inquiry waitresses on Clyde steamers, and endeavour to see whether it is not possible to have them treated other than as seasonal workers?

Mr. Brown

I will note the suggestion.

Mr. Davidson

Will the right hon. Gentleman accept sample wage slips for his examination?

Mr. Brown

I am always glad to get information, and to give it.

Mr. Lawson

May I ask whether his object in considering this matter of the catering trade is to improve the conditions?

Mr. Brown

My object is to do everything to initiate or extend collective agreements between both sides in industry with a view to improving the condition of the workers.

Mr. Ede

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that it is more blessed to give than to receive?