§ 38. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that a domestic employment agency, of the name of which he has been informed, recently demanded a fee of £11 from a domestic employee on engagement, as well as a fee of £2 10s. from the employer concerned; and if he will take steps to check such exploitation.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonI have made inquiry and I am informed that the agency referred to is licensed by the London County Council in pursuance of their General Powers Act of 1921. The engagement in question was that of a governess and the fees charged, of which both parties were informed before the engagement was made, was in accordance with a scale notified to the London County Council when the agency was licensed. The London County Council has no power to regulate the fees charged by such agencies.
§ Mr. DribergIf the London County Council has no power to do so, has the Minister no power to check this racket?
§ Mr. MorrisonNo, Sir.
§ Sir Joseph LambIs it not time that he took such power?
§ Mr. MorrisonIt may be, but there is a good deal of legislation floating about the House.
§ Mr. MorrisonNo, I cannot do that. Hon. Members must not encourage me to use the Defence Regulations.