HC Deb 24 February 1953 vol 511 cc1888-9
15. Miss Ward

asked the Secretary of State for War what consultations he had with the trade unions on the new terms for recruitment for the technical branches of the Women's Royal Army Corps; and whether the rate for the job is embodied in the rates of pay.

Mr. Head

None, Sir. The changes being made are an extension of existing arrangements for recruitment of women for technical duties. Women who qualify for and carry out such duties receive the rates of pay already fixed.

Miss Ward

Is my right hon. Friend aware that as this is a new recruitment it would have been more appropriate to discuss the matter with the trade unions? Now that it appears that it has not been so discussed, will my right hon. Friend consult the trade unions, and if they recommend the rate for the job in technical trades, will he accept the recommendation?

Mr. Head

These rates were fixed some time ago. The changes to which the hon. Lady is referring are merely that a recruit to the W.R.A.C. can select her trade and be guaranteed that she will go to it before she joins instead of after as was previously the case.

Mr. Bottomley

Can the Minister say whether there have been consultations with the trade unions on this matter?

Mr. Head

We are in the closest consultation with the trade unions on all rates of pay and they are very cooperative on this question of conditions and rates of pay for both men and women and recognition of qualifications after they leave the Services.