HC Deb 16 November 1939 vol 353 c800
12. Mr. Cluse

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is satisfied that the regulations of the Trade Boards Act are correctly administered in regard to cost-of-living increases, where they apply, and rates of wages; and whether he is satisfied that he has sufficient inspection personnel available?

Mr. E. Brown

I have no evidence that effect is not being given to the decisions of trade boards, but if the hon. Member has any particular case in mind in which the proper minimum rates are not being paid, I shall be glad to be informed. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr. Cluse

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in connection with the very low wages paid in the trade board industries people who are unemployed have not the courage to see that, when they are employed, they get the rates of wages to which they are entitled under the cost-of-living index?

Mr. Brown

If the hon. Member has evidence of that, I shall be glad to have it. We have no evidence to that effect in the Department.