§ 37. Mrs. Beatrice Wrightasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is yet in a position to report on the investigation he promised into the minimum wage rates of women agricultural workers other than the Women's Land Army?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture (Mr. T. Williams)My right hon. Friend is afraid he is not yet in a position to add anything to the answer he gave my hon. Friend on 7th May.
§ Mrs. WrightIs the Minister making any investigations in accordance with the promise he gave to me in reply to a Question some weeks ago, and, if, so, are these investigations proceeding quickly, and will he -be in a position to make a statement soon?
§ Mr. WilliamsMy right hon. Friend is in consultation with the Minister of Labour and National Service and other interests involved, and hopes to be able to make a statement shortly.
§ Sir Percy HurdWhat is the reason for the delay; what is the difficulty?
§ Mr. WilliamsThe problem requires discussion, and that involves delay.
§ Dr. Edith SummerskillIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the House is getting rather impatient, and cannot he give more information?
§ Mr. WilliamsI have already explained that my right hon. Friend is discussing this matter with the Minister of Labour and other interests, and, hopes to be able to make a statement shortly.
§ Mrs. WrightIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the Ministry are pleading for help for the harvest and that the present position is very unsatisfactory to the women who are working, and that the quicker this matter is settled the quicker the harvest will be got in?
§ Mr. WilliamsThat problem is constantly before my right hon. Friend.