992 DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR : WRITINGS AND SPEECHES
(b) if Government intend to give them a minimum living wage, if so, when, and how much,
(c) the amenities provided to them such a bathing facilities, outdoor games, education of children, provision of quarters and medical aid,
(d) their working period per week, and whether Government propose to reduce these hours to 40 per week,
(e) if Government propose to supply them foodgrains at concession rates similar to those enjoyed by the Delhi Press and other Government Departments, and
(f) whether Government intend to abolish the piece wage system and introduce monthly pay on the basis of the wages earned by the employees at present ?
The Honourable Dr. B. R. Ambedkar : (a) Yes. The grievances are :
(i) reduction made by the Government of U. P. in the rationing of wheat,
(ii) revision of pay and grades,
(iii) concessional rates of foodgrains on the lines of concession allowed to Government servants in Delhi,
(iv) abolition of piece rates,
(v) revision of working hours, and
(vi) provision of quarters.
The immediate cause of the notice of a strike is the reduction in wheat rationing.
(b) The question is a general one which is engaging the attention of Government.
(c) No facilities exist at present other than for outdoor games and medical attendance. The question of granting other facilities is under consideration.
(d) The weekly working hours are 48. The question whether a reduction is advisable is being considered.
(e) No. The Employees of the Aligarh Press get foodgrains at concession rates on the lines of the U. P. Government’s orders.
(f) The present policy of Government is to substitute gradually time scales of pay for both piece rates as opportunities occur.