§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Minister of Labour if he will state what authority the Chairman of the Canal Control Committee has to authorise rates of pay to men engaged upon boat-building without consultation with himself as the recognised Minister of Labour; and to what parliamentary head the Chairman of such Canal Control Committee is responsible?
§ Dr MACNAMARAThe Canal Control Committee was originally responsible to the President of the Board of Trade and subsequently to the Minister of Transport. The Committee ceased to function when the Canal Subsidy came to an end on 31st August last. As far as I am aware, the Canal Control Committee had no authority over the rates of pay of men engaged on boat building. In the case, however, of canal employees, where increases of wages involved extra expense in the shape of a further charge on the State subsidy which used to be given to canals, I understand that the Chairman of the Canal Control Committee was consulted before such increases were paid. I am not able, however, to speak with authority on the powers and duties of the Canal Control Committee, but perhaps my hon. Friend, if he desires to pursue this matter, would address his questions to the Minister of Transport.