HC Deb 14 February 1922 vol 150 cc858-9W
Mr. MYERS

asked the Minister of Labour, in view of the fact that the Waste Trade Board first met in September, 1920; that a minimum rate of wages for female workers was fixed on 11th March, 1921; that he wrote on 7th April to the effect that the rate should be reconsidered by the Board; that on the 16th May the Board wrote again to ask that the rates as fixed might be confirmed to become effective as soon as possible; that he replied finally on the 19th July refusing to confirm the rates, but stating that if, having regard to the facts, the Board would desire to review the position, he would take steps to ensure that, so far as the length of the period which must elapse under the Acts before any revised proposals could become operative, depended upon his action, it would be as short as possible; and that the Board in consequence fixed a rate on 24th November and forwarded this for confirmation; whether he will say if the rate has been confirmed; and, if not, will he state the reasons?

Sir M. BARLOW

My right hon. Friend has made an Order, dated 25th January, confirming the minimum rates of wages fixed by the General Waste Materials Reclamation Trade Board and specifying 1st March as the date from which the rates shall become effective.