HC Deb 31 July 1941 vol 373 c1542W
Mr. Goldie

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that at Warrington youths of the ages of 16 and 17, employed by contractors on Government contracts, are receiving weekly wages of from £4 to £6 15s.; on what work such youths are engaged; and for what reason they receive such high remuneration?

Mr. Bevin

My hon. and learned Friend has sent me particulars of a number of cases of boys aged 16 or 17 who are stated to have been employed on public works at hourly rates ranging from is. 2d. to Is. 7d. and with weekly earnings amounting to £4 and upwards. I have brought this information to the notice of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Works and Buildings within whose province it is to make any necessary investigation.