§ MR. O'GRADYTo ask the First Commissioner of Works whether representation has been made to him by the Lambeth Trades and Labour Council respecting the firm of Messrs. Waygood and Company, lift makers, that on contracts for His Majesty's Government the wages paid to wood cutting machinists in the employ of the firm were 50 per cent, less than the current rates; whether inquiries have been made; and, if so, the result of those inquiries.
(Answered by Mr. Harcourt.) A representation to this effect was made to me in July last, and I replied that it was impossible to obtain an explanation from Messrs. Waygood and Company unless I could acquaint them with the specific charges made against them, which had been furnished to me in confidence. Not having received the Trades Council's assent to my doing this, I have not been able to proceed further in the matter.