§ MR. MACDONALD (Tower Hamlets, Bow)I beg to ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the representations made to the War Department with reference to sub-contracting and sweating in the London Small Arms Factory at Bow have been examined; and, if so, with what result?
§ THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE (Mr. WOODALL,) HanleyIn consequence of the representations made by my hon. Friend, a careful inquiry has been personally instituted by the Director of Contracts, who was met in a most amicable spirit by the Directors and Managers of the company. Partly on their own initiative, and partly in deference to his suggestions, changes have been made which it may be hoped will fairly obviate the causes of complaint. It has been determined that all piece-work rates for components shall be fixed and recorded at the office, and that wages shall be paid to every man and boy employed directly by the company's cashier instead of through intermediary contractors.
§ MR. J. BURNS (Battersca)Will the prices to be paid be posted up in the workshops and room where the men and boys work?
§ MR. WOODALLAn undertaking has been given that the prices to which the men and boys are entitled shall be placed in such a position as to make them accessible to every person concerned.