HC Deb 13 March 1957 vol 566 cc1125-6
18. Mr. Wilfred Paling

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the minimum average wages for European and Asian unskilled and skilled workers in the mining industry in Tanganyika; and what provision is made for the training and advancement of Africans in the industry.

Mr. Profumo

No minimum wage rates are laid down by law for the mining industry and no statistics are available showing rates for European or Asian workers. The high turn-over of African workers impedes lengthy training schemes, but one gold mine operates successfully a scheme for training experienced miners as charge-hands.

Mr. Paling

Are not the wages of the Africans very low compared with the wages paid to both Asians and Europeans? Does not this lead to much dissatisfaction? In any event, will the Minister see that Africans are given every opportunity of becoming skilled and trained workers?

Mr. Profumo

Yes. Sir. Certainly.

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