§ CAPTAIN NORTONI beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether it has been brought to his notice that certain plumbers' work is now being done at Brixton prison by men who are not recognised in the trade as competent plumbers, and who do not receive the current rate of wages in the locality for this class of work, and whether he will inquire into the matter.
*THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. RITCHIE Croydon)I am informed that the question refers to certain works relating to the laying of iron pipes which the Plumbers Association claim to be plumbers' work. This is contested by the Pipefitters' Union. I cannot decide which of these parties is right in the dispute, and as the work is now practically finished I do not think it necessary to take any further steps.