HC Deb 03 November 1938 vol 340 cc337-9
1. Mr. A. Jenkins

asked the Minister of Labour the number of new industries working on the Treforest estate and the number of persons employed in them?

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Brown)

On 31st October 26 factories on the Treforest Trading Estate were in production. The number of workpeople employed in these factories was 720.

8. Mr. Batey

asked the Minister of Labour whether it is his intention to hold an inquiry into the allegations that at some factories on the Team Valley estate girls are working for very low wages?

Mr. Brown

There have been discussions recently between two of the firms on the estate and trade unions, and I have no information which suggests that a general inquiry on my part is necessary.

Mr. Batey

Would it not be wise for the Minister to hold an inquiry to see whether the statements are true or not?

Mr. Brown

No, Sir, I think not. The last time this question was raised was in March, and assertions were made of extraordinary conditions among batches of cases, and the hon. Member who made that assertion has not sent me one.

Mr. Batey

The Minister admits now that there are some cases, and surely he can hold an inquiry concerning the factories in which low wages are being paid?

Mr. Brown

I have not done anything of the kind. I pointed out in my answer that there have been discussions between two of the firms on the estate and trade unions. The hon. Member knows that a large number on these estates are trade board trades.

Mr. Shinwell

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether trade union officials can obtain access to the estate to consult with the workers?

Mr. Brown

I do not know that there is any difficulty about that at all. If the hon. Member has any reason for suggesting that, perhaps he will let me know the facts. But at the moment I have heard many assertions, some of which are calculated to stop this good work, and I suggest to the House that hon. Members would be doing a better service by trying to further the creation of new factories than by making these assertions.

Mr. Lawson

In view of the various charges that have been made of all kinds, does not the right hon. Gentleman think it would be better to have an inquiry in order to settle the question of whether wages are good or very bad?

Mr. Brown

I never think it wise for a Minister of Labour to enter upon fishing inquiries at all. If we have any facts brought before us, we are always glad to see that justice is done, if we can assist.

Mr. Logan

On a point of Order. Is it correct for a Minister, when answering a question, to give his own personal opinion as to what is right and what is wrong, or should he answer the question directed to him?

Mr. Speaker

Ministers are very often asked for their personal opinions.

Mr. Logan

Is anybody concerned about the personal opinion of the Minister?

9. Mr. Batey

asked the Minister of Labour the number of men, 21 years of age or over, who are employed in the factories on the Team Valley and St. Helen's estates in the county of Durham?

Mr. Brown

585 men over the age of 18 years were employed in factories on the Team Valley Trading Estate on 3oth September. I am making inquiries about the position at St. Helen's, Auckland, and will write to the hon. Member.

Mr. Dalton

May I have a copy of that?

Mr. Brown

Yes, Sir, I should have done that in any case.

Mr. Batey

I thought that that was my question.

Mr. Brown

Since the question refers to the hon. Member's division, I shall in common courtesy send him a copy of that answer.