HC Deb 14 July 1908 vol 192 cc593-4
MR. HUDSON (Newcastle-on-Tyne)

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Admiralty have granted to their contractors on the North-East coast an extension of time for the completion of contracts.

MR. MCKENNA

Certain shipbuilding contractors on the North-East coast have been granted an extension of time for the completion of their contracts on account of difficulties in connection with novelties of design. There are also certain contractors on the North-East coast who have given notice to the Admiralty of probable delays in their shipbuilding contracts owing to labour troubles, and an extension of time corresponding to the delay caused by such labour troubles may, if required by the circumstances of the case, be granted to them as provided in the contracts.

MR. HUDSON

May I ask if the provision in the contracts as to extensions of time relates to lock-outs as well as strikes? In considering this matter will he remember that this is a lock-out and not a strike?

MR. MCKENNA

Yes, Sir. The hon. Member will observe that all I have said is that extensions may be granted "if required by the circumstances of the case." I have not stated there is an intention to allow it.

MR. CURRAN (Durham, Jarrow)

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Government contracts are now being completed by an extra supply of apprentices who are doing the work which qualified journeymen did prior to the dispute? Is that in accordance with the terms of the contract?

MR. MCKENNA

I am afraid I must have specific cases brought to my notice before I can answer the Question.

MR. CURRAN

I will give the names of the firms.

MR. MCKENNA

Perhaps the hon. Member will put the Question down.