HC Deb 30 June 1953 vol 517 cc202-3
64. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Labour if he has noted the report of the Catering Wages Commission for 1952, in which they urge the speedy reconstitution of the wages board for the protection of the workers engaged in unlicensed residential establishments; and what action he is taking in the matter.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Harold Watkin-son)

Yes, Sir. My right hon. and learned Friend has carefully noted the views of the Catering Wages Commission on this matter. Experience has, however, clearly shown that the provision and functioning of adequate machinery to regulate wages in this complex industry is beset by serious difficulties. From the answer which was given in the House on 5th March, the hon. Member will be aware that new arrangements are being tried on the licensed side of the industry, and we consider that the wisest course is to await the results of this development.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that a Commission twice recommended that a wages board should be set up for the unlicensed residential establishments, and will he take note of the recommendation of the Commission and give this matter further consideration?

Mr. Watkinson

We will certainly take note of that, but the hon. Member will know that the previous body made no recommendations during the whole of its life.

Mr. Woodburn

Can the hon. Gentleman say what was the official outcome of the question of the small hotels in rural districts and the Highlands which found themselves seriously prejudiced by the rules made for the big hotels in London?

Mr. Watkinson

I am afraid that is a different question.

Mr. Lewis

Is the Minister aware that there was an unlicensed residential establishments wages board and that it ceased to exist on the understanding that the employers in the industry would see whether they could come to some arrangement in conjunction with the licensed residential establishments wages board? In view of the fact that nothing appears to have been done all these years, does not the hon. Gentleman think that some action should be taken to get this section of the industry on to a proper footing?

Mr. Watkinson

I did not say that no action was being taken. I am sure the hon. Gentleman knows what a difficult problem this is, and I can assure him that we are looking at it to see if we can provide satisfactory machinery. The difficulty is to find machinery which will function.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that the Commission made reference to recommendations which they made last year, and will the hon. Gentleman take note of those as well as of this year's recommendations?