HC Deb 05 June 1967 vol 747 cc619-20
42. Mr. J. E. B. Hill

asked the Minister of Labour what steps he is taking for greater statistical accuracy to revise Minimum List Heading 881 of Order XXIII of the Standard Industrial Classification so as separately to distinguish those employees who are engaged upon the production as distinct from the distribution or exhibition of films.

Mr. Hattersley

I am arranging for the statistical classification of activities associated with the production of films to be considered by the inter-Departmental committee which is currently considering suggested changes to the 1958 edition of the Standard Industrial Classification.

Mr. Hill

I welcome the Minister's indication of some action. Will he not agree that it is inconsistent and arbitrary to continue to lump together the process of production with that of exhibition and distribution, since the processes of production are recognised as a manufacturing industry for various other purposes including those of the Factories Acts themselves?

Mr. Hattersley

I am sure that the hon. Gentleman does not want me to make any comment on that suggestion, because the review is in progress. The review should be ready next year and may substantiate—I emphase "may"—his point of view.

Mr. Biffen

Will the hon. Gentleman ask the Committee to consider the question of bottling milk which is not considered to be an industrial process? If an employer bottles milk he pays the Selective Employment Tax and if he bottles beer he gets the premium.

Mr. Hattersley

Because it is a general review of the classifications, both the bottling of milk and the bottling of beer will fall under the review.