HC Deb 17 July 1952 vol 503 cc2327-8
47. Mr. Snow

asked the Minister of Agriculture what wage rates are stipulated by his department for staff carrying out artificial insemination services in schemes which have received his recognition in Staffordshire.

Sir T. Dugdale

The artificial insemination service in Staffordshire is provided by the Milk Marketing Board under licence from my Department, and wages and conditions of employment are matters for arrangement between the Board and its staff.

Mr. Snow

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the public assumes there will be a fair wages clause in any such contractual agreement with this body? Is he also aware that there are complaints that these artificial inseminators do not get a fair wage and that they are liable to be on call at all hours of the day?

Sir T. Dugdale

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman might draw to my attention any particular case. In the country as a whole 32 of these centres are now functioning. In England and Wales 24 are operated by the Milk Marketing Board, six by other organisations and two by the Ministry. In the two run by the Ministry the wages and conditions of the staff are my responsibility.

Mr. Snow

Would the right hon. Gentleman answer my question? Will he see there is a fair wages clause in any contract or agreement into which he enters?

Mr. G. Brown

Does the right hon. Gentleman accept the implication that the Milk Marketing Board in this matter are acting as his agents?

Sir T. Dugdale

No, in this particular case the arrangements for wages are definitely the concern of the Milk Marketing Board.

Mr. G. Brown

And the union?

Sir T. Dugdale

And the union.

Mr. Snow

Is there not a monopoly here?