HC Deb 02 March 1939 vol 344 cc1448-9
42. Mr. Day

asked the Minister of Labour the reasons supplied to him for the relay in negotiating agreements between the cinematograph exhibitors and the employes for those areas in which agreements have not yet been completed; and what action he now proposes to take following the inquiry held by his Department into the working conditions and hours of person employed in the cinematograph industry?

Mr. E. Brown

As regards the first part of the question, I am not aware of any avoidable delay in negotiating agreements of the kind referred to. It will obviously be a matter of time to reach agreements covering all districts, and my information is that steady progress is being made. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him on 2nd February.

Mr. Day

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many small exhibitors endeavour to avoid entering into agreements, so as to avoid paying trade union rates of wages?

Mr. T. Williams

Has any agreement yet been reached in Manchester; and, if not, what action or help has the right hon. Gentleman's Department given to produce it?

Mr. Brown

If the hon. Member will put that question down, I will give him an answer.

70. Mrs. Adamson

asked the Minister of Labour how many agreements have been made between employers and the trade unions affecting the conditions and wages of attendants in the cinema industry?

Mr. Brown

The number of agreements known to my Department is 25.