POLITICAL BREEZE IN BRITAIN

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 3145, 25 July 1917, Page 5

POLITICAL BREEZE IN BRITAIN

URGENT WHIP ISSUED. (Eec. July 24, 5.5 p.m.) London, July 23. An urgent Government Whip has been issued regarding Mr. G. J. Wardles amendment to the Corn Production Bill. Tho Government regards twentyiive shillings per week minimum wage for agriculturists as the fundamental basis. The pro-Government newspapers warn their opponents not to create a crisis which will result in an appeal to 'the country.—Aus.-N./j. Cable Assn. AMENDMENT DEFEATED. (Rec. July 24, 7.10 p.m.) London, July 23. In the House of Commons Mr. Wardle's amendment was defeated by 301 voles to 102 ■■ Mr. Prothero (Minister for Agriculture) said that the Government could not accept Mr. Wardle's amendment, nnd | if pressed to a division must stand or fall by the result. The Bill was essential to our existence and safety. The minimum wage was irreducible, but tho Wages Board could' increase it. The proposed increased wage would impose the payment of an additional I'orty million on the farmers. Tho late Government had miscalculated the submarine menace, and the changes and shortages in the world's supply of prain. We could not afford a third miscalculation.—Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn. [A report received yesterday stated 'that according to the "Daily News" the Government is opposed to Mr. sG. J. Wardle's amendment of the Corn Production Bill, in which lie seeks to sncuiv an increase of the wages of agricultural labourers from 255. to 30s. a week, notwithstanding that the Bill provide.? for farmers a large bonus to stimulate production.]