§ 2. Mr. Dayasked 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. BrownI 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 348 taking place between my Department and the organisations concerned with a view to giving such assistance as is possible.
§ Mr. DayIs 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. BrownDiscussions 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. T. SmithCould not the Government issue a White Paper showing what progress has been made in these negotiations?
§ Mr. BrownI 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.