HC Deb 20 February 1951 vol 484 c1035
8. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will ask the unions and employers if, during the meetings which he has requested them to hold to consider the position of women in industry, they will discuss the application of the rate for the job in industry, particularly in view of the need for women recruits to help with the defence programme.

Mr. Lee

In any discussions between representatives of workers and employers regarding the employment of women, questions of wage rates must be settled by the appropriate wage negotiating procedures set up by each industry.

Miss Burton

Is that answer a variation of the usual stone-walling tactic on this matter or may it be taken as a sign that we are at least to have this question considered?

Mr. Lee

Interpretations are always dangerous in these matters.

Sir Herbert Williams

Was it the lack of the rate for the job which led 200 foundry men to walk out because one woman had walked in?

Mr. George Craddock

As the rate for the job is paid in the higher grades of professional service, irrespective of sex, does not the Minister think that the time had come when this principle should be extended to the lower grades and to those in industry?

Mr. Angus Maude

Arising from the original Question and reply, is the Minister aware that the Government can do nothing whatever about enforcing the rate for the job in industry until they are prepared to enforce it in their own Government employment?