HC Deb 05 February 1948 vol 446 c1892
13. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what incentives are now offered to miners to break coal output records.

Mr. Gaitskell

Payment by results which applies in the case of nearly all coal-face workers, is no doubt a financial inducement. But I am sure it is no less their appreciation of the nation's urgent need for increased production which inspires those who have performed these magnificent record-breaking feats.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware that Slogger Williams whose daily output was the record one of 50 tons a shift, is living in two rooms with his wife and two children, and that the conditions under which the Scots miners are living are worse? Will he consider impressing upon Ministers the importance of housing in regard to miners' output?

Mr. Gaitskell

As my hon. Friend probably knows, miners' housing already has the highest possible priority.

Mr. Butcher

Could the Minister indicate whether increased food rations are a contributory factor in this?

Mr. Gaitskell

I should say they might play some part.