§ Mr. C. DUNCANasked the right hon. Member for Monmouth, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, what the scale of salaries for foresters, foremen, and workmen employed under the Forestry Commission was in 1921; and what increases and reductions in the pay of these classes has taken place since 1921?
§ Sir L. FORESTIER-WALKERThe scales of salaries for the three grades of foresters employed under the Forestry Commission in 1921 varied from £l50–£350 per annum, and in consequence of the fall in the cost of living were reduced in 1922 to £l30–£290, and in 1924 to £l20–£270. At the last date all head foresters and Grade I foresters and 60 per cent. of Grade II were placed on an established basis, which entitles them to pensions. The salaries for foremen in 1921 were £130 per annum or 2s. above the minimum agricultural weekly wage (whichever was greater). In 1922 their salaries were reduced to 42s. up to 45s per week. Foresters and foremen are provided with free quarters, or in lieu thereof house allowance from 7s. 6d. to 10s. per week. The rates of wages for workmen employed on day work under the Forestry Commission vary with the local agricultural wage, which represents the minimum payable. A large proportion of work is done on piece work, which enables the workmen to earn considerably greater wages than day work rates.