HC Deb 26 January 1954 vol 522 cc1585-6
15. Mr. Lewis

asked the Minister of Labour what approaches have been made to his Department's employment exchanges by the management of a West-End hotel, of which he is aware, during the last 12 months for kitchen and other staffs; if he is aware that the management have insisted that they will not take coloured people; and what was the nature of the reply given by his officers.

Mr. Watkinson

I am aware that at least one hotel in the West End of London will not engage coloured workers in a few occupations. This hotel makes regular use of the employment exchange service which, in accordance with general practice, takes note of employers' special requirements.

Mr. Lewis

Is that the Green Park Hotel, which operates the colour bar against visitors? Are we to take it that the Green Park Hotel do not allow any coloured workers to do the menial jobs in the kitchen? Do they insist that they will not take on any coloured workers? Can we have some further explanation?

Mr. Watkinson

It is not for me to pronounce on individual cases but to make it plain that the employment exchange service of the Ministry of Labour does not exercise any discrimination on grounds of race or colour.

Mr. Lewis

What happens if a coloured worker is inadvertently sent to this hotel and the management refuse? What advice does the Minister give to the management about taking on staff?

Mr. Watkinson

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will be kind enough to put that question down.