§ Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the complaints of trade union leaders in Jamaica that upon the Seven Rivers property certain workers are denied war bonus whilst others receive less than the wages to which they are entitled; that rates of wages for work in plantations are as low as is. 9d. per day for men and is. for women, which rates are too low for adequate subsistence, whilst the hours worked are from 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 7.30 p.m.; and whether he will call for a detailed report on this position with a view to remedy?
§ Colonel StanleyThe complaints referred to have not previously been brought to my notice. A Proclamation by the Governor of Jamaica dated 2nd December, 1942, fixed the minimum wage for sugar workers at 2s. 6d. a day (including war bonus) for able-bodied men, and is. 6d. a day for able-bodied women. I will certainly ask the Governor for a report.