HC Deb 26 January 1943 vol 386 cc338-9
8. Mr. Gallacher

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the resolution passed by East Wemyss miners at a public meeting on 22nd November, 1942, and sent to him by the hon. Member for West Fife; and what steps he is prepared to take to meet their demand for 30 extra clothing coupons instead of 10?

The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Dalton)

The whole question of further concessions to workers in the heavier industries is at present under discussion with the General Council of the Trades Union Congress.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister not aware of the terrific wear and tear on miners' clothes, and will he not see whether it is possible to make this concession?

Mr. Dalton

I always have taken and I always shall take into consideration to the utmost what we can do for workers, of whom miners are, of course, one very important section, whose daily work entails heavy wear and tear on their clothes. It is for that special reason that the General Council and the trade unions specially concerned are advising me now as to how to meet the situation.

Commander Sir Archibald Southby

Are not agricultural workers also sufferers from very considerable wear and tear?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, Sir, and there are many others.

Mr. Kirkwood

What about ship workers?