HC Deb 22 October 1942 vol 383 cc2104-5
75. Mr. Edmund Harvey

asked the Home Secretary whether further consideration has been given to the possibility of permitting British subjects detained under Regulation 18B in the Isle of Man to undertake farm work, either on parole or under guard: and whether his attention has been called to the hardship involved to those without private means if no opportunity for earning money is granted them?

Mr. H. Morrison

Yes, Sir, every endeavour has been, and continues to be made to provide suitable employment, particularly farm work, for British subjects detained in the Isle of Man under Regulation 18B, but one of the difficulties is to find detainees who are able and willing to work on farms. A proposal to take over a farm in the vicinity of the camp is now under consideration. As regards the last part of the Question, I am informed that all the detainees who are prepared to work are now occupied.

Mr. Stokes

Have the rates of pay been adjusted? Last time the right hon. Gentleman told the House that these people were getting only 1s. a week.

Mr. Morrison

indicated dissent.

Mr. Stokes

It is of no importance whether the pay is 1s. a day or 1s. a week, because both are inadequate. As these detentions are of a preventive and not of a punitive character, does he think that is fair?

Mr. Morrison

I do not know what my hon. Friend means. He refers to 1s. a day and then to 1s. a week, and he does not seem to mind much which way it is. It must be remembered that these people are being maintained at the expense of the State. I think the hon. Gentleman wants to elevate these ladies and gentlemen rather too high in the social scale.

Mr. Stokes

I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment.