§ 50. Mr. T. Smithasked the Minister of Agriculture the reason for the delay in reaching a settlement of the application of the National Union of Agricultural Workers for a higher minimum wage?
Major DugdaleThe application is being considered by the Agricultural Wages Board in accordance with the Agricultural Wages Act. I understand that the Board have held two or three meetings on the subject, and will be meeting again on 22nd July.
§ Mr. SmithIs my hon. and gallant Friend aware of the growing unrest among agricultural workers over the delay in dealing with this application, and of the feeling that no other body of organised workers in this country would be fobbed off in such a way?
Major DugdaleI said that the meeting will be held on 22nd July. At the meeting on 15th May it was decided to ask the Minister of Agriculture to supply certain information on the position of the industry and general economic conditions. Such information took a certain amount of time to collect. It has now been collected. The committee have met again, 1490 and have adjourned in order that the workers' representatives may consult with their members.
§ Mr. SmithWould my hon. and gallant Friend urge upon the Minister the desirability of reaching a quick settlement? Does he recognise that you cannot get a prosperous agriculture when you have a Woolworth wage in operation?