§ 36. Sir Knox Cunninghamasked the Lord President of the Council how the wages of the catering staff in the House of Commons compare with the rates of wages paid in catering establishments in London; and what steps are being taken to improve the conditions of work of such staff.
§ Mr. BowdenAs a result of inquiries recently made, I find that the wages paid to the catering staff of the House of Commons compare favourably with 1623 wages paid in other catering establishments in London.
Within the limitations of the accommodation available to the Refreshment Department and the catering services required by the House, the improvement of the conditions of work for the staff is constantly under review.
§ Sir Knox CunninghamWill the proposed Selective Employment Tax have any effect on the number of persons employed by the catering department? Would the Lord President of the Council ensure that there is an immediate improvement in their conditions of employment?
§ Mr. BowdenThe second part of the hon. and learned Gentleman's question is a matter for the Select Committee on House of Commons (Services), which will be looking into the whole question of accommodation. The first part of the hon. and learned Gentleman's question ought perhaps to be addressed to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.