asked the Home Secretary whether be is aware that a wage of 18s. per week is paid for the services of boots at the hotels under Government control in the Carlisle area; and whether he can do anything to improve the situation?

I have made inquiry, and am informed that the persons employed as "boots" in the State-managed hotels in the Carlisle area receive free board and lodging in addition to their weekly wages except in one case of a temporary employé, who receives board without lodging. I am satisfied in all the circumstances that there is no necessity to make any alteration in the terms of their employment.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the man is employed also in cleaning motor vehicles, for which the charge is 5s. a time, and that he gets no recognition for that work over and above the 18s.?

I have had no complaint at all. It is common knowledge that people occupying this position do get little emoluments in addition to their wages.

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that this shows the lack of success in State trading?