HC Deb 24 August 1893 vol 16 cc951-2
MR. DARLING (Deptford)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether there are any, and, if so, how many, coopers employed in the Deptford Victualling Yard at less wages than those agreed to by the London master coopers, and that the current rate of wages paid in their trade?

THE CIVIL LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (Mr. E. ROBERTSON,) Dundee

Of the 34 coopers at Deptford 2 earn 30s. a week; 6 earn 26s.; and 26 work piece-work according to a scale of prices revised in 1890. This scale was proposed by the men and adopted by the Admiralty, who, however, increased the prices in some instances. Under the scale men can earn up to 36s. a week. It is believed that these earnings compare favourably with those of the private trade.