HC Deb 18 May 1908 vol 188 cc1642-3
MR. T. F. RICHARDS

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that many firms who contract for the manufacture of paint brushes for the War Department are not paying the standard rate of wages in their particular district; and whether he will assist in the prevention of sweating by giving the names of those firms in receipt of Government contracts.

MR. HALDANE

The hon. Member is no doubt aware that considerable facilities are given to the Parliamentary Committee of the Trade Union Congress for the detection of cases of alleged breach of the Fair Wages Resolution, and I am always willing to investigate those cases, and, if necessary, to remove the firm from the list of those to whom tenders are issued. I am not sure that the publication of names would materially add to the efficiency of our machinery for the prevention of sweating, but if the hon. Member will give me the name of the firms not paying the recognised district rate, early investigation shall be made.

MR. T. F. RICHARDS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is very difficult for trade unions to find out who the contractors are?

MR. HALDANE

But they do find out.

MR. T. F. RICHARDS

After the contract is completed.