HC Deb 07 October 1941 vol 374 cc848-9
47. Mr. Horabin (for

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider the advisability of granting a subsidy to the Kitchen Committee sufficient to enable them to make reasonable allowances during periods when the House is not in Session, to members of the temporary staff who, at present, receive no payment, and have found great difficulty in obtaining any casual work?

Sir K. Wood

The Kitchen Committee is already in receipt of a Grant in Aid, £4,000 being the amount provided in the House of Commons Vote for the current year. The conditions of service of staff engaged by the Kitchen Committee are of course a matter for the Committee itself.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the Chancellor consider representations that the subsidy should be increased in order to provide tolerable conditions for those who serve us?

Sir K. Wood

That is a matter for the Committee.

Mr. Thorne

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the subsidy is chiefly used for the purpose of providing food for Members?