MR. KEIRHARDIE (Merthyr Tydvil)To ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that at Messrs. Vickers, Son and Maxim's Brightside Works men are employed on Government work at less than the standard wages, whilst competent workmen who were in receipt of the full rate of 38s. per week have been discharged to make room for semi-skilled workmen at lower rates; and, if so, whether he will take steps to secure that the Fair Wages Resolution of this House is observed in this case.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Brodrick.) On inquiry, Messrs. Vickers, Son, and Maxim state that in no case have fully rated men been discharged from the Brightside Works who are employed on. Government work to make room for 1189 semi-skilled workmen at lower rates; that the standard rate of wage customary in the district or a rate above that amount is paid, in accordance with the Fair Wages' Resolution, on Government work; and that out of the total number of men employed on ordnance work 31.3 per cent. are in receipt of wages in excess of the standard rate.