HC Deb 05 July 1939 vol 349 cc1271-2
22. Mr. Poole

asked the Secretary of State for Air what rates of pay prevail for general labourers employed at the Royal Air Force training camp at Hednesford; and what is the district trade union rate for such labour?

Sir K. Wood

The rate of pay for general labourers at the Royal Air Force station, Hednesford, is 47s. for a week of 48 hours. This rate is based on an examination of rates paid for comparable employment in the district. I am not aware that there is a district trade union rate.

Mr. Poole

Does the right hon. Gentleman suggest that the actual rate applicable in the district is less than Is. an hour? Will he make further inquiries as to the rate paid in the district, and see that he pays labourers employed at this camp something more respectible than 47s. for a 48-hour week?

Sir K. Wood

I have said that the rate is based on an examination of the rates paid for comparable labour in the district. If the hon. Member has any further information to give me, I shall be glad to receive it.

Mr. Poole

Does the right hon. Gentleman base his average rate on the rate paid to agricultural labourers, or what comparable rate does he employ? The average trade union rate in the district 1s. 3d. an hour.

Sir K. Wood

Any information which the hon. Member will send to me I shall be glad to receive.