HC Deb 10 March 1893 vol 9 c1603
MR. DALZIEL (Kirkcaldy, &c.)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury if he can state the date on which a Circular was issued to the contractors for stationery binding to Her Majesty's Stationery Office, directing their compliance with the terms of the Resolution of the House of Commons of 13th February, 1891; whether he is aware that Messrs. Waterlow and Sons, although employing a number of vellum binders at the recognised scale of wages, employ youths and young men on Government work at wages varying from 18s. to 25s. per week, the minimum trade rate being 34s.; and whether be proposes to take any action in the matter?

THE SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY (Sir J. T. HIBBERT,) Oldham

The Circular in question was issued on the 9th February, 1892. I am not able to say whether the statement in the second paragraph is correct; but, as the Resolution of the 13th February, 1891, does not appear to deal with the proportion of boy labour to be employed, I do not think that I can move in the matter.

MR. DALZIEL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, since attention has been called to this matter, one of the firms concerned has dismissed a number of the men at a moment's notice?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

I am not aware of that.

MR. FLYNN

Has a Circular in similar terms been issued to Irish firms?

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

Yes; I have said so on several occasions.