§ Mr. SITCHasked the Minister of Labour the amount of money paid in fees and travelling expenses to the members of the district committees of the Sugar Confectionery Trade Board for attendance at the last respective meetings of these bodies, and the approximate length of time of the meetings referred to?
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§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe average cost of each meeting was £25. The meetings of these Committees are only held when there is a definite business to be transacted, and this is usually at fairly long intervals. Prior to the meetings referred to, the Committees had not met for six months. The Trade Boards, I may say, have had under consideration the question whether the expense is justified, having regard, among other considerations, to the shortness of the last meetings, which, I am advised, varied from 2¾ hours to 10 minutes. I understand that on 30th June the Board resolved that the Committees should either be disestablished or reduced in size. I will consider this proposal when it is submitted to me, bearing in mind the need for economy. As my hon. Friend is aware, Parliament made provision for the establishment of District Trade Committees in order that an opportunity might be afforded to local employers and workers of considering the proposals of the Trade Board as they affect their districts and of making recommendations to meet local conditions. These Committees, therefore, are capable of playing an important part in the settlement of minimum conditions.