§ 28. Mr. Banfieldasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the concern that exists among sections of aircraft workers, and, in particular, at the Austin shadow factory, due to the continual cutting of time on jobs, especially the wing spar section, which leaves the men barely sufficient time to do the work efficiently; and what action he proposes to take to secure that speeding-up does not mean impaired workmanship and injustice to the workmen?
§ Sir K. WoodNo representations on this matter have been received at the Air Ministry and I am informed that the management of the factory concerned 407 have not been approached in regard to the time allowances for the work referred to. Appropriate procedure exists for the examination of such questions and I am sure that any complaints will be given due consideration. In reply to the second part of the question, all work is subject to the normal standards of Air Ministry inspection and I am informed that the standards of workmanship and material at the Austin factory are regarded as entirely satisfactory.
§ Mr. BanfieldWill the Minister please make some further inquiry into this matter; and is he aware that there is no greater cause for discontent, and eventually for stoppages of work, than this continual cutting of piece rates? I put it to the Minister that, in the interests of efficiency, it is really a very serious matter if sufficient time is not given to the men to complete their jobs?
§ Sir K. WoodThat may very well be so, and I shall be glad to see any steps taken to obtain full efficiency in the matter. The hon. Gentleman, I am sure, will appreciate that neither the Ministry nor the manufacturers have been approached in this matter.
§ Mr. LeachWill the right hon. Gentleman undertake to be as careful of the interests of these aircraft workers as he is prepared to be of the interests of the shareholders?