§ Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the recommendation of the Central Wages Board for an increase in the minimum rate of wages for agricultural workers does not apply to Scotland; and whether he is taking any steps to secure Scottish agricultural workers an increase in wages equal to that enjoyed by farm workers in England?
Mr. JohnstonThe Scottish Acts of 1937–1940 differ from the English Acts in that they do not empower the Central Wages Board to take the initiative in fixing minimum wages for agricultural workers but lay that duty on eleven district agricultural wages committees who have regard to local conditions. Three of the committees have resolved to recommend increases in certain local rates, while the other eight have resolved against revision meantime. The Central Board has met to consider how to secure uniformity, but has not yet reached a decision. The Secretary of State has no power to intervene in the fixation of these. minimum rates.