HC Deb 15 August 1940 vol 364 cc929-30
7. Sir A. Knox

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is collecting any information as to the weekly earnings of persons engaged directly or indirectly on Government contracts; and whether he can furnish any information as to how these earnings compare with those earned by the same classes of persons prior to the outbreak of war?

Mr. Bevin

Information is being collected by my Department as to the average earnings, in one week of July, 1940, of workpeople employed in manufacturing industries generally and in some of the principal non-manufacturing industries. I do not anticipate, however, that data will be available for making the comparison with pre-war earnings desired by my hon. and gallant Friend.

Mr. Higgs

Is the Minister aware that there is a Government factory in Birmingham where girls in the early twenties are earning as much as £8 a week—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh!"]—and does he consider that this is just and equitable to the men in the Forces? [Interruption.]

Mr. Speaker rose—

Mr. Higgs

On a point of Order. Was I not asking a question in a proper manner? I could not be heard, owing to the interruptions on the other side of the House.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member was asking for the Minister's opinion. He should ask questions about facts.