§ CAPTAIN NORTON (Newington, W.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that workmen are employed by a contractor covering up steam pipes with patent covering in the Danger Buildings, Royal Laboratory, Woolwich Arsenal, at a rate of wages of 5½d. per hour, which is below the current rate of wages in the locality for similar work; and whether he will insist upon the contractor paying the current rate.
§ MR. BRODRICKThe firm who are engaged on the work state that they are paying 5½d. and upwards for pipe covering, and inquiry will be made as to whether this rate is below the current rate of the district.
§ CAPTAIN NORTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the outside rate for general labour is 6d. and 6½.d. per hour, according to the character of the work?
§ MR. BRODRICKNo, Sir, but I have said I will inquire.