§ Mr. McEnteeasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that six weeks ago complaints were lodged with the War Office and the Air Ministry that Messrs. F. W. Rigby and Company, of London, were not acting in compliance with the Fair Wages Clause as regards wages, hours, and conditions; that apparently it was agreed between the two Departments that the necessary inquiries should be made by the Air Ministry; that, although up to the present no decision has been given, the War Office gave another contract to this firm on the 24th May last; for what reason was a fresh contract granted to a firm at a time when complaints have been made against them; and whether he can now state what action it is proposed to take in order to secure compliance with the Fair Wages Clause?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaShould it be found that infringements of the Fair Wages Clause have occurred the firm will be called upon to make adjustment of wages and conditions to conform to the clause. It would be unfair to prejudge the situation before the establishment of a complaint.