HC Deb 03 November 1938 vol 340 cc347-8
2. Mr. Day

asked the Minister of Labour particulars of what arrangements he has now made with the cinema proprietors, as a result of and following the inquiry which he commenced some two years back, relative to the hours, wages, and working conditions of the employÉs engaged in the cinema industry; and whether he proposes to take any further action?

Mr. E. Brown

I am glad to be able to say that since the inquiry began agreements have been concluded in 17 areas and that further negotiations are taking place. I am keeping in close touch with the progress made and discussions are taking place between my Department and the organisations concerned with a view to giving such assistance as is possible.

Mr. Day

Is it the fact that a number of the employers who pay very bad wages and employ these people for long hours are not members of any association?

Mr. Brown

Discussions are going on in my Department at this moment. I prefer to do nothing more, but to leave it to the organisations concerned to continue with the discussions, which are being fruitful, giving what help I can.

Mr. Day

Is it not possible to get the bad employers into line?

Mr. T. Smith

Could not the Government issue a White Paper showing what progress has been made in these negotiations?

Mr. Brown

I cannot do that as we are right in the middle of them, and at the moment I think that it is better to go on as we are doing.

Mr. Day

Will the Minister answer my previous question?