10. Mr. Jenkinsasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that many of the men employed on the construction of the ordnance and other Government works in Monmouthshire have to travel long distances to and from their homes daily, and that the cost of travelling absorbs a considerable portion of their wages; and whether it is intended to provide facilities to enable the workpeople to travel free of cost to themselves?
§ Mr. AsshetonThis is a matter which should be regulated by arrangements within the industry itself.
Mr. JenkinsDoes not the Minister realise that many of these people have to travel 30 miles per day each way to these works, that it is absorbing a great deal of their income, and that on account of bad weather these people often lose half a week's wage?
§ Mr. AsshetonThe hon. Member will be aware that special rates such as, for example, exceptional margins, are in many cases fixed by the industry.
§ 13. Mr. Mainwaringasked the Minister of Labour what complaints he has received on behalf of unemployed men who, having had temporary employment at Government stations at Bridgend and St. Athans, transport to which cost them 9s. per week, find upon again becoming unemployed that the stop wage regulation takes note of the omnibus fares and the reduced amount entering the home; and whether he will take steps to ensure that this is not regarded as a normal amount for these men?
§ Mr. AsshetonI have not received any complaint regarding the Board's practice in this matter on behalf of the applicants referred to, but if the hon. Member will let me know the names of the applicants concerned I will ascertain the facts.