HC Deb 31 May 1938 vol 336 cc1808-9
10. Mr. T. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is satisfied that the hours of labour and the wages of technicians employed in the production of "This Man is News" comply with Section 34 of the Film Act, 1938; and, further, what machinery has been set up to ensure compliance with this Section of the Act?

Mr. Stanley

I have not received any formal complaint that the company concerned in the production of the film to which the hon. Member refers is not observing fair wages and conditions. As regards the latter part of the question, I do not think that any special machinery is necessary.

Mr. Williams

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the trade union representatives feel that neither the spirit nor the word of Section 34 was observed by this particular company? Is he aware that Gaumont-British have an agreement with the trade unions to apply Section 34, and will he recommend all the companies to take that as a standard model?

Mr. Stanley

The hon. Gentleman is well aware of the limits of my powers. If a dispute of this kind arises and is not otherwise settled, I refer it to the Industrial Court.

Mr. Williams

In the meantime, would the right hon. Gentleman suggest to all the producing companies that it would be wise and in the interests of all parties if they could get a standard set of terms and conditions that would apply generally?

Mr. Stanley

I ought, perhaps, to have notice of that question, but the hon. Gentleman will realise that, although I am glad to assist in any way in preventing any dispute, my powers are limited.