§ Mr. HUDSONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will state what action has been taken by the Admiralty to investigate the truth or otherwise of the allegation that the firm of Messrs. Armstrong, Whitworth, and Company, of Elswick, are not observing the Fair Wage Clause in the payment of certain electrical wiremen in their employ, or whether the contrary statement by the firm in question is taken as satisfactory and final; whether he is aware that this matter has been in negotiation since July, 1908; and whether he will take steps to have it thoroughly investigated and promptly settled?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAFull enquiries were made of the firm upon the statements originally made, and the conclusion was 477 reached that the Fair Wages Clause was not being infringed. My hon. Friend was so informed in reply to a question in July of last year. If, however, he is in a position to submit any detailed particulars applicable to the present time which seem to suggest the contrary, I will carefully consider them.
§ Mr. HUDSONHas the hon. Gentleman overlooked the fact that the men employed on the vessel supplied the names of men who were not paid the standard wages?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAInquiries were, made into the trades supplied to us, and the replies received were what I gave to my hon. Friend. If, in addition, he would like any further information, or if there is any complaint with respect to the present time, I will carefully consider the matter.
§ Mr. CURRANWere investigations made last year; and, if so, what were the results of those investigations?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI say full inquiry was made, and the result I communicated to my hon. Friend.