§ 7. Mr. Higgsasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the disparity that exists between the pay of the armed Forces and some munition workers who do not run the same risk, and can he see his way clear to limit that of the latter, in order that cheap cigarettes and postage can be provided for the former?
§ Mr. BevinThe wages of civilian workers are regulated by industrial agreements, which I do not propose to disturb, and with regard to which I have recently made an Order, with the consent of all parties, providing for reference to arbitration in the last resort. I do not propose to interfere with the cordial relations existing in industry, which have contributed so much to good will and increased production of vital munitions and exports recently. The question of the remuneration of the armed Forces is 1374 a separate matter, and must be dealt with on its own merits.
§ Mr. HiggsIs the Minister aware that this war may be lost or won on the economic front, and that the wages paid to the munition workers are four or five times as great as the wages agreed to by the unions?
§ Mr. SorensenWould the right hon. Gentleman not suggest that the hon. Member should bring his own salary down to the level of the soldier's pay?
§ Mr. KirkwoodYes, what about the income of the hon. Gentleman himself?