HC Deb 29 May 1952 vol 501 cc1640-1
21. Captain Duncan

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered the recent report of the Catering Wages Commission; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of Labour (Sir Walter Monckton)

I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the Commission's Annual Report for 1951 just published, and in particular to that part of the Report in which the Commission say that they could not legally take the course they wish to follow in recommending changes in the Wages Board machinery.

When I became aware of these difficulties, I entered into discussions with both sides of the industry to see whether, by co-operation and good will, they could themselves agree on a course to follow that would enable them to work towards a mutually acceptable system of wage regulation as it affects the hotel industry. I am glad to say that a large measure of agreement has been reached and I am about to reconstitute the Licensed Residential Establishment and Licensed Restaurant Wages Board to enable effect to be given to the proposals that have been made to me by the trade unions and the hotel associations representing the employers.

Captain Duncan

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware that the 1951 Report also refers to the question of a separate wages board for Scotland, and has he considered that; and in view of the fact that Mr. Tom Johnston and others in Scotland have repeatedly stated that this is necessary, what action is he taking to deal with it?

Sir W. Monckton

That matter has been considered, and I ask my hon. and gallant Friend to wait and see what the arrangements are and whether it is necessary to proceed further in the matter.

Mr. Woodburn

Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman take care to distinguish between the large hotels in Scotland which are no different in equipment from those in England, and the small hotels in the isolated areas, which are quite unsuitable for many of the regulations which are imposed?

Sir W. Monckton

I have that very much in mind.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Will my right hon. and learned Friend bear in mind that we have been told constantly for years past to wait in connection with getting separate boards for Scotland, and that we are getting a little tired of waiting.