HC Deb 18 March 1952 vol 497 cc2082-3
18. Miss Irene Ward

asked the Minister of Labour, in terms of percentage, what cut has been imposed on the National Institute of Houseworkers.

Sir W. Monckton

Approximately 66 per cent.

Miss Ward

Has any such severe cut been imposed on any other Government establishment?

Sir W. Monckton

I am afraid that severe cuts have been imposed in other places. I am afraid I have not all in mind now.

Miss Ward

Can my right hon. and learned Friend name the other establishments in HANSARD?

Mr. Anthony Greenwood

Would not the Minister agree that the National Institute of Houseworkers has done a great deal towards raising the status of domestic labour in this country? Would he not agree that these cuts are most regrettable?

Sir W. Monckton

I can agree with this, that it is always regrettable, in a time when economies are forced upon us, to have to cut down on those who have done good work. We have, however, managed to save something here, from which I hope, when times get better, the Institute will rise again.

Miss Ward

Can my right hon. and learned Friend say why the cut has been imposed on this particular section of Government-controlled establishments?

Sir W. Monckton

The cut was imposed here because, when we looked among all the places where we could, but without wishing to, make cuts, we found that this was one where a cut could be made without damaging either the export trade or the defence programme, or anything of that kind.