HC Deb 20 February 1939 vol 344 cc26-7
44. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that three women employees of the General Post Office film unit worked all night on 17th January at the Denham laboratories on the film "The Warning"; whether sanction was obtained for this from the Home Office; and whether those and other employés on the production received overtime pay for the extra hours worked?

Sir W. Womersley

I am making inquiry on this matter and will communicate with the hon. Member.

Mr. Day

Will the hon. Member make inquiry as to the necessity there was for these women to work all night?

Sir W. Womersley

That is one of the things I am going to inquire into.

49. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the Association of Cine-technicians approached the General Post Office film unit on 17th June, 1937, respecting salaries and conditions of employment of film technicians at the Black heath studio; and whether he will give immediate consideration to the representations of the Association to the effect that technician's salaries should be raised to the level of those paid by other producers of documentary films?

Sir W. Womersley

I am aware that representations have been made by this association and these are at present under consideration. I will see what can be done to expedite the negotiations.

Mr. Sorensen

Will the hon. Member promise to give recognition to this recognised trade union?

Sir W. Womersley

I will promise to give every consideration to the points brought before me.

Mr. Sorensen

Surely the hon. Member will agree that it is better to work in co-operation with a trade union than to ignore it?

Sir W. Womersley

I agree that it is much better to negotiate with a body representing a substantial number of our employ és.

Mr. Day

Will the hon. Member see that these employés receive the same salary working under the Government as they received in private enterprise?

Sir W. Womersley

I can assure the hon. Member that the trade unions concerned look after that matter.

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