HC Deb 26 July 1965 vol 717 cc7-9
8. Mr. Hamling

asked the Minister of Labour what report he has received from his wages inspectors on wages being paid in the retail book trade in the West End of London; and how many prosecutions have taken place as a result.

Mr. Thornton

Reports of wages inspection in the retail bookselling and

9. Mr. Murray

asked the Minister of Labour what grants are being paid to trainees in Government training centres.

Mr. Gunter

As the reply consists of a table of figures I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the information:

stationery trade in London postal districts W.1, W.C.1 and W.C.2 have been analysed for the years 1963, 1964 and up to 22nd June, 1965. During this time there were 51 inspections and the wages of 302 workers were examined. One employee was found to have been paid less than the statutory minimum weekly remuneration prescribed in the Wages Regulation Order and he was paid arrears of £19 5s. 0d. There were no prosecutions in this trade for offences under the Wages Councils Act, 1959.

Mr. Hamling

Is my hon. Friend aware that in the recent labour dispute in this trade in the West End disturbing allegations were made by representatives of the workers about the wages paid by this firm? Would my hon. Friend look at this matter again?

Mr. Thornton

I think that the matter is covered in an answer to a later Question.

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